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48 return 0; 48 return 0;
49 } 49 }
50 50
51=head1 DESCRIPTION 51=head1 DESCRIPTION
52 52
53The newest version of this document is also available as a html-formatted
54web page you might find easier to navigate when reading it for the first
55time: L<http://cvs.schmorp.de/libev/ev.html>.
56
53Libev is an event loop: you register interest in certain events (such as a 57Libev is an event loop: you register interest in certain events (such as a
54file descriptor being readable or a timeout occuring), and it will manage 58file descriptor being readable or a timeout occurring), and it will manage
55these event sources and provide your program with events. 59these event sources and provide your program with events.
56 60
57To do this, it must take more or less complete control over your process 61To do this, it must take more or less complete control over your process
58(or thread) by executing the I<event loop> handler, and will then 62(or thread) by executing the I<event loop> handler, and will then
59communicate events via a callback mechanism. 63communicate events via a callback mechanism.
94Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing the 98Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing the
95(fractional) number of seconds since the (POSIX) epoch (somewhere near 99(fractional) number of seconds since the (POSIX) epoch (somewhere near
96the beginning of 1970, details are complicated, don't ask). This type is 100the beginning of 1970, details are complicated, don't ask). This type is
97called C<ev_tstamp>, which is what you should use too. It usually aliases 101called C<ev_tstamp>, which is what you should use too. It usually aliases
98to the C<double> type in C, and when you need to do any calculations on 102to the C<double> type in C, and when you need to do any calculations on
99it, you should treat it as such. 103it, you should treat it as some floatingpoint value. Unlike the name
104component C<stamp> might indicate, it is also used for time differences
105throughout libev.
100 106
101=head1 GLOBAL FUNCTIONS 107=head1 GLOBAL FUNCTIONS
102 108
103These functions can be called anytime, even before initialising the 109These functions can be called anytime, even before initialising the
104library in any way. 110library in any way.
109 115
110Returns the current time as libev would use it. Please note that the 116Returns the current time as libev would use it. Please note that the
111C<ev_now> function is usually faster and also often returns the timestamp 117C<ev_now> function is usually faster and also often returns the timestamp
112you actually want to know. 118you actually want to know.
113 119
120=item ev_sleep (ev_tstamp interval)
121
122Sleep for the given interval: The current thread will be blocked until
123either it is interrupted or the given time interval has passed. Basically
124this is a subsecond-resolution C<sleep ()>.
125
114=item int ev_version_major () 126=item int ev_version_major ()
115 127
116=item int ev_version_minor () 128=item int ev_version_minor ()
117 129
118You can find out the major and minor version numbers of the library 130You can find out the major and minor ABI version numbers of the library
119you linked against by calling the functions C<ev_version_major> and 131you linked against by calling the functions C<ev_version_major> and
120C<ev_version_minor>. If you want, you can compare against the global 132C<ev_version_minor>. If you want, you can compare against the global
121symbols C<EV_VERSION_MAJOR> and C<EV_VERSION_MINOR>, which specify the 133symbols C<EV_VERSION_MAJOR> and C<EV_VERSION_MINOR>, which specify the
122version of the library your program was compiled against. 134version of the library your program was compiled against.
123 135
136These version numbers refer to the ABI version of the library, not the
137release version.
138
124Usually, it's a good idea to terminate if the major versions mismatch, 139Usually, it's a good idea to terminate if the major versions mismatch,
125as this indicates an incompatible change. Minor versions are usually 140as this indicates an incompatible change. Minor versions are usually
126compatible to older versions, so a larger minor version alone is usually 141compatible to older versions, so a larger minor version alone is usually
127not a problem. 142not a problem.
128 143
129Example: Make sure we haven't accidentally been linked against the wrong 144Example: Make sure we haven't accidentally been linked against the wrong
130version. 145version.
266C<LIBEV_FLAGS>. Otherwise (the default), this environment variable will 281C<LIBEV_FLAGS>. Otherwise (the default), this environment variable will
267override the flags completely if it is found in the environment. This is 282override the flags completely if it is found in the environment. This is
268useful to try out specific backends to test their performance, or to work 283useful to try out specific backends to test their performance, or to work
269around bugs. 284around bugs.
270 285
286=item C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>
287
288Instead of calling C<ev_default_fork> or C<ev_loop_fork> manually after
289a fork, you can also make libev check for a fork in each iteration by
290enabling this flag.
291
292This works by calling C<getpid ()> on every iteration of the loop,
293and thus this might slow down your event loop if you do a lot of loop
294iterations and little real work, but is usually not noticeable (on my
295Linux system for example, C<getpid> is actually a simple 5-insn sequence
296without a syscall and thus I<very> fast, but my Linux system also has
297C<pthread_atfork> which is even faster).
298
299The big advantage of this flag is that you can forget about fork (and
300forget about forgetting to tell libev about forking) when you use this
301flag.
302
303This flag setting cannot be overriden or specified in the C<LIBEV_FLAGS>
304environment variable.
305
271=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend) 306=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend)
272 307
273This is your standard select(2) backend. Not I<completely> standard, as 308This is your standard select(2) backend. Not I<completely> standard, as
274libev tries to roll its own fd_set with no limits on the number of fds, 309libev tries to roll its own fd_set with no limits on the number of fds,
275but if that fails, expect a fairly low limit on the number of fds when 310but if that fails, expect a fairly low limit on the number of fds when
284lot of inactive fds). It scales similarly to select, i.e. O(total_fds). 319lot of inactive fds). It scales similarly to select, i.e. O(total_fds).
285 320
286=item C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL> (value 4, Linux) 321=item C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL> (value 4, Linux)
287 322
288For few fds, this backend is a bit little slower than poll and select, 323For few fds, this backend is a bit little slower than poll and select,
289but it scales phenomenally better. While poll and select usually scale like 324but it scales phenomenally better. While poll and select usually scale
290O(total_fds) where n is the total number of fds (or the highest fd), epoll scales 325like O(total_fds) where n is the total number of fds (or the highest fd),
291either O(1) or O(active_fds). 326epoll scales either O(1) or O(active_fds). The epoll design has a number
327of shortcomings, such as silently dropping events in some hard-to-detect
328cases and rewiring a syscall per fd change, no fork support and bad
329support for dup:
292 330
293While stopping and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration will 331While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration
294result in some caching, there is still a syscall per such incident 332will result in some caching, there is still a syscall per such incident
295(because the fd could point to a different file description now), so its 333(because the fd could point to a different file description now), so its
296best to avoid that. Also, dup()ed file descriptors might not work very 334best to avoid that. Also, C<dup ()>'ed file descriptors might not work
297well if you register events for both fds. 335very well if you register events for both fds.
298 336
299Please note that epoll sometimes generates spurious notifications, so you 337Please note that epoll sometimes generates spurious notifications, so you
300need to use non-blocking I/O or other means to avoid blocking when no data 338need to use non-blocking I/O or other means to avoid blocking when no data
301(or space) is available. 339(or space) is available.
302 340
303=item C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE> (value 8, most BSD clones) 341=item C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE> (value 8, most BSD clones)
304 342
305Kqueue deserves special mention, as at the time of this writing, it 343Kqueue deserves special mention, as at the time of this writing, it
306was broken on all BSDs except NetBSD (usually it doesn't work with 344was broken on all BSDs except NetBSD (usually it doesn't work reliably
307anything but sockets and pipes, except on Darwin, where of course its 345with anything but sockets and pipes, except on Darwin, where of course
308completely useless). For this reason its not being "autodetected" 346it's completely useless). For this reason it's not being "autodetected"
309unless you explicitly specify it explicitly in the flags (i.e. using 347unless you explicitly specify it explicitly in the flags (i.e. using
310C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE>). 348C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE>) or libev was compiled on a known-to-be-good (-enough)
349system like NetBSD.
350
351You still can embed kqueue into a normal poll or select backend and use it
352only for sockets (after having made sure that sockets work with kqueue on
353the target platform). See C<ev_embed> watchers for more info.
311 354
312It scales in the same way as the epoll backend, but the interface to the 355It scales in the same way as the epoll backend, but the interface to the
313kernel is more efficient (which says nothing about its actual speed, of 356kernel is more efficient (which says nothing about its actual speed, of
314course). While starting and stopping an I/O watcher does not cause an 357course). While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher does never
315extra syscall as with epoll, it still adds up to four event changes per 358cause an extra syscall as with C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL>, it still adds up to
316incident, so its best to avoid that. 359two event changes per incident, support for C<fork ()> is very bad and it
360drops fds silently in similarly hard-to-detect cases.
317 361
318=item C<EVBACKEND_DEVPOLL> (value 16, Solaris 8) 362=item C<EVBACKEND_DEVPOLL> (value 16, Solaris 8)
319 363
320This is not implemented yet (and might never be). 364This is not implemented yet (and might never be).
321 365
322=item C<EVBACKEND_PORT> (value 32, Solaris 10) 366=item C<EVBACKEND_PORT> (value 32, Solaris 10)
323 367
324This uses the Solaris 10 port mechanism. As with everything on Solaris, 368This uses the Solaris 10 event port mechanism. As with everything on Solaris,
325it's really slow, but it still scales very well (O(active_fds)). 369it's really slow, but it still scales very well (O(active_fds)).
326 370
327Please note that solaris ports can result in a lot of spurious 371Please note that solaris event ports can deliver a lot of spurious
328notifications, so you need to use non-blocking I/O or other means to avoid 372notifications, so you need to use non-blocking I/O or other means to avoid
329blocking when no data (or space) is available. 373blocking when no data (or space) is available.
330 374
331=item C<EVBACKEND_ALL> 375=item C<EVBACKEND_ALL>
332 376
375Destroys the default loop again (frees all memory and kernel state 419Destroys the default loop again (frees all memory and kernel state
376etc.). None of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal 420etc.). None of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal
377sense, so e.g. C<ev_is_active> might still return true. It is your 421sense, so e.g. C<ev_is_active> might still return true. It is your
378responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yoursef I<before> 422responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yoursef I<before>
379calling this function, or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually 423calling this function, or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually
380the easiest thing, youc na just ignore the watchers and/or C<free ()> them 424the easiest thing, you can just ignore the watchers and/or C<free ()> them
381for example). 425for example).
426
427Note that certain global state, such as signal state, will not be freed by
428this function, and related watchers (such as signal and child watchers)
429would need to be stopped manually.
430
431In general it is not advisable to call this function except in the
432rare occasion where you really need to free e.g. the signal handling
433pipe fds. If you need dynamically allocated loops it is better to use
434C<ev_loop_new> and C<ev_loop_destroy>).
382 435
383=item ev_loop_destroy (loop) 436=item ev_loop_destroy (loop)
384 437
385Like C<ev_default_destroy>, but destroys an event loop created by an 438Like C<ev_default_destroy>, but destroys an event loop created by an
386earlier call to C<ev_loop_new>. 439earlier call to C<ev_loop_new>.
410 463
411Like C<ev_default_fork>, but acts on an event loop created by 464Like C<ev_default_fork>, but acts on an event loop created by
412C<ev_loop_new>. Yes, you have to call this on every allocated event loop 465C<ev_loop_new>. Yes, you have to call this on every allocated event loop
413after fork, and how you do this is entirely your own problem. 466after fork, and how you do this is entirely your own problem.
414 467
468=item unsigned int ev_loop_count (loop)
469
470Returns the count of loop iterations for the loop, which is identical to
471the number of times libev did poll for new events. It starts at C<0> and
472happily wraps around with enough iterations.
473
474This value can sometimes be useful as a generation counter of sorts (it
475"ticks" the number of loop iterations), as it roughly corresponds with
476C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> calls.
477
415=item unsigned int ev_backend (loop) 478=item unsigned int ev_backend (loop)
416 479
417Returns one of the C<EVBACKEND_*> flags indicating the event backend in 480Returns one of the C<EVBACKEND_*> flags indicating the event backend in
418use. 481use.
419 482
421 484
422Returns the current "event loop time", which is the time the event loop 485Returns the current "event loop time", which is the time the event loop
423received events and started processing them. This timestamp does not 486received events and started processing them. This timestamp does not
424change as long as callbacks are being processed, and this is also the base 487change as long as callbacks are being processed, and this is also the base
425time used for relative timers. You can treat it as the timestamp of the 488time used for relative timers. You can treat it as the timestamp of the
426event occuring (or more correctly, libev finding out about it). 489event occurring (or more correctly, libev finding out about it).
427 490
428=item ev_loop (loop, int flags) 491=item ev_loop (loop, int flags)
429 492
430Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called 493Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called
431after you initialised all your watchers and you want to start handling 494after you initialised all your watchers and you want to start handling
452libev watchers. However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is 515libev watchers. However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is
453usually a better approach for this kind of thing. 516usually a better approach for this kind of thing.
454 517
455Here are the gory details of what C<ev_loop> does: 518Here are the gory details of what C<ev_loop> does:
456 519
520 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers.
457 * If there are no active watchers (reference count is zero), return. 521 * If there are no active watchers (reference count is zero), return.
458 - Queue prepare watchers and then call all outstanding watchers. 522 - Queue all prepare watchers and then call all outstanding watchers.
459 - If we have been forked, recreate the kernel state. 523 - If we have been forked, recreate the kernel state.
460 - Update the kernel state with all outstanding changes. 524 - Update the kernel state with all outstanding changes.
461 - Update the "event loop time". 525 - Update the "event loop time".
462 - Calculate for how long to block. 526 - Calculate for how long to block.
463 - Block the process, waiting for any events. 527 - Block the process, waiting for any events.
514Example: For some weird reason, unregister the above signal handler again. 578Example: For some weird reason, unregister the above signal handler again.
515 579
516 ev_ref (loop); 580 ev_ref (loop);
517 ev_signal_stop (loop, &exitsig); 581 ev_signal_stop (loop, &exitsig);
518 582
583=item ev_set_io_collect_interval (loop, ev_tstamp interval)
584
585=item ev_set_timeout_collect_interval (loop, ev_tstamp interval)
586
587These advanced functions influence the time that libev will spend waiting
588for events. Both are by default C<0>, meaning that libev will try to
589invoke timer/periodic callbacks and I/O callbacks with minimum latency.
590
591Setting these to a higher value (the C<interval> I<must> be >= C<0>)
592allows libev to delay invocation of I/O and timer/periodic callbacks to
593increase efficiency of loop iterations.
594
595The background is that sometimes your program runs just fast enough to
596handle one (or very few) event(s) per loop iteration. While this makes
597the program responsive, it also wastes a lot of CPU time to poll for new
598events, especially with backends like C<select ()> which have a high
599overhead for the actual polling but can deliver many events at once.
600
601By setting a higher I<io collect interval> you allow libev to spend more
602time collecting I/O events, so you can handle more events per iteration,
603at the cost of increasing latency. Timeouts (both C<ev_periodic> and
604C<ev_timer>) will be not affected. Setting this to a non-null bvalue will
605introduce an additional C<ev_sleep ()> call into most loop iterations.
606
607Likewise, by setting a higher I<timeout collect interval> you allow libev
608to spend more time collecting timeouts, at the expense of increased
609latency (the watcher callback will be called later). C<ev_io> watchers
610will not be affected. Setting this to a non-null value will not introduce
611any overhead in libev.
612
613Many (busy) programs can usually benefit by setting the io collect
614interval to a value near C<0.1> or so, which is often enough for
615interactive servers (of course not for games), likewise for timeouts. It
616usually doesn't make much sense to set it to a lower value than C<0.01>,
617as this approsaches the timing granularity of most systems.
618
519=back 619=back
520 620
521 621
522=head1 ANATOMY OF A WATCHER 622=head1 ANATOMY OF A WATCHER
523 623
702=item bool ev_is_pending (ev_TYPE *watcher) 802=item bool ev_is_pending (ev_TYPE *watcher)
703 803
704Returns a true value iff the watcher is pending, (i.e. it has outstanding 804Returns a true value iff the watcher is pending, (i.e. it has outstanding
705events but its callback has not yet been invoked). As long as a watcher 805events but its callback has not yet been invoked). As long as a watcher
706is pending (but not active) you must not call an init function on it (but 806is pending (but not active) you must not call an init function on it (but
707C<ev_TYPE_set> is safe) and you must make sure the watcher is available to 807C<ev_TYPE_set> is safe), you must not change its priority, and you must
708libev (e.g. you cnanot C<free ()> it). 808make sure the watcher is available to libev (e.g. you cannot C<free ()>
809it).
709 810
710=item callback ev_cb (ev_TYPE *watcher) 811=item callback ev_cb (ev_TYPE *watcher)
711 812
712Returns the callback currently set on the watcher. 813Returns the callback currently set on the watcher.
713 814
714=item ev_cb_set (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback) 815=item ev_cb_set (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback)
715 816
716Change the callback. You can change the callback at virtually any time 817Change the callback. You can change the callback at virtually any time
717(modulo threads). 818(modulo threads).
819
820=item ev_set_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher, priority)
821
822=item int ev_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher)
823
824Set and query the priority of the watcher. The priority is a small
825integer between C<EV_MAXPRI> (default: C<2>) and C<EV_MINPRI>
826(default: C<-2>). Pending watchers with higher priority will be invoked
827before watchers with lower priority, but priority will not keep watchers
828from being executed (except for C<ev_idle> watchers).
829
830This means that priorities are I<only> used for ordering callback
831invocation after new events have been received. This is useful, for
832example, to reduce latency after idling, or more often, to bind two
833watchers on the same event and make sure one is called first.
834
835If you need to suppress invocation when higher priority events are pending
836you need to look at C<ev_idle> watchers, which provide this functionality.
837
838You I<must not> change the priority of a watcher as long as it is active or
839pending.
840
841The default priority used by watchers when no priority has been set is
842always C<0>, which is supposed to not be too high and not be too low :).
843
844Setting a priority outside the range of C<EV_MINPRI> to C<EV_MAXPRI> is
845fine, as long as you do not mind that the priority value you query might
846or might not have been adjusted to be within valid range.
847
848=item ev_invoke (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher, int revents)
849
850Invoke the C<watcher> with the given C<loop> and C<revents>. Neither
851C<loop> nor C<revents> need to be valid as long as the watcher callback
852can deal with that fact.
853
854=item int ev_clear_pending (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher)
855
856If the watcher is pending, this function returns clears its pending status
857and returns its C<revents> bitset (as if its callback was invoked). If the
858watcher isn't pending it does nothing and returns C<0>.
718 859
719=back 860=back
720 861
721 862
722=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER 863=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER
828it is best to always use non-blocking I/O: An extra C<read>(2) returning 969it 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. 970C<EAGAIN> is far preferable to a program hanging until some data arrives.
830 971
831If you cannot run the fd in non-blocking mode (for example you should not 972If 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 973play 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 974whether 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 975such as poll (fortunately in our Xlib example, Xlib already does this on
835its own, so its quite safe to use). 976its own, so its quite safe to use).
977
978=head3 The special problem of disappearing file descriptors
979
980Some backends (e.g. kqueue, epoll) need to be told about closing a file
981descriptor (either by calling C<close> explicitly or by any other means,
982such as C<dup>). The reason is that you register interest in some file
983descriptor, but when it goes away, the operating system will silently drop
984this interest. If another file descriptor with the same number then is
985registered with libev, there is no efficient way to see that this is, in
986fact, a different file descriptor.
987
988To avoid having to explicitly tell libev about such cases, libev follows
989the following policy: Each time C<ev_io_set> is being called, libev
990will assume that this is potentially a new file descriptor, otherwise
991it is assumed that the file descriptor stays the same. That means that
992you I<have> to call C<ev_io_set> (or C<ev_io_init>) when you change the
993descriptor even if the file descriptor number itself did not change.
994
995This is how one would do it normally anyway, the important point is that
996the libev application should not optimise around libev but should leave
997optimisations to libev.
998
999=head3 The special problem of dup'ed file descriptors
1000
1001Some backends (e.g. epoll), cannot register events for file descriptors,
1002but only events for the underlying file descriptions. That menas when you
1003have C<dup ()>'ed file descriptors and register events for them, only one
1004file descriptor might actually receive events.
1005
1006There is no workaorund possible except not registering events
1007for potentially C<dup ()>'ed file descriptors or to resort to
1008C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
1009
1010=head3 The special problem of fork
1011
1012Some backends (epoll, kqueue) do not support C<fork ()> at all or exhibit
1013useless behaviour. Libev fully supports fork, but needs to be told about
1014it in the child.
1015
1016To support fork in your programs, you either have to call
1017C<ev_default_fork ()> or C<ev_loop_fork ()> after a fork in the child,
1018enable C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>, or resort to C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or
1019C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
1020
1021
1022=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions
836 1023
837=over 4 1024=over 4
838 1025
839=item ev_io_init (ev_io *, callback, int fd, int events) 1026=item ev_io_init (ev_io *, callback, int fd, int events)
840 1027
894 1081
895The callback is guarenteed to be invoked only when its timeout has passed, 1082The callback is guarenteed to be invoked only when its timeout has passed,
896but if multiple timers become ready during the same loop iteration then 1083but if multiple timers become ready during the same loop iteration then
897order of execution is undefined. 1084order of execution is undefined.
898 1085
1086=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1087
899=over 4 1088=over 4
900 1089
901=item ev_timer_init (ev_timer *, callback, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat) 1090=item ev_timer_init (ev_timer *, callback, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat)
902 1091
903=item ev_timer_set (ev_timer *, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat) 1092=item ev_timer_set (ev_timer *, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat)
916=item ev_timer_again (loop) 1105=item ev_timer_again (loop)
917 1106
918This will act as if the timer timed out and restart it again if it is 1107This will act as if the timer timed out and restart it again if it is
919repeating. The exact semantics are: 1108repeating. The exact semantics are:
920 1109
1110If the timer is pending, its pending status is cleared.
1111
921If the timer is started but nonrepeating, stop it. 1112If the timer is started but nonrepeating, stop it (as if it timed out).
922 1113
923If the timer is repeating, either start it if necessary (with the repeat 1114If the timer is repeating, either start it if necessary (with the
924value), or reset the running timer to the repeat value. 1115C<repeat> value), or reset the running timer to the C<repeat> value.
925 1116
926This sounds a bit complicated, but here is a useful and typical 1117This sounds a bit complicated, but here is a useful and typical
927example: Imagine you have a tcp connection and you want a so-called 1118example: Imagine you have a tcp connection and you want a so-called idle
928idle timeout, that is, you want to be called when there have been, 1119timeout, that is, you want to be called when there have been, say, 60
929say, 60 seconds of inactivity on the socket. The easiest way to do 1120seconds of inactivity on the socket. The easiest way to do this is to
930this is to configure an C<ev_timer> with C<after>=C<repeat>=C<60> and calling 1121configure an C<ev_timer> with a C<repeat> value of C<60> and then call
931C<ev_timer_again> each time you successfully read or write some data. If 1122C<ev_timer_again> each time you successfully read or write some data. If
932you go into an idle state where you do not expect data to travel on the 1123you go into an idle state where you do not expect data to travel on the
933socket, you can stop the timer, and again will automatically restart it if 1124socket, you can C<ev_timer_stop> the timer, and C<ev_timer_again> will
934need be. 1125automatically restart it if need be.
935 1126
936You can also ignore the C<after> value and C<ev_timer_start> altogether 1127That means you can ignore the C<after> value and C<ev_timer_start>
937and only ever use the C<repeat> value: 1128altogether and only ever use the C<repeat> value and C<ev_timer_again>:
938 1129
939 ev_timer_init (timer, callback, 0., 5.); 1130 ev_timer_init (timer, callback, 0., 5.);
940 ev_timer_again (loop, timer); 1131 ev_timer_again (loop, timer);
941 ... 1132 ...
942 timer->again = 17.; 1133 timer->again = 17.;
943 ev_timer_again (loop, timer); 1134 ev_timer_again (loop, timer);
944 ... 1135 ...
945 timer->again = 10.; 1136 timer->again = 10.;
946 ev_timer_again (loop, timer); 1137 ev_timer_again (loop, timer);
947 1138
948This is more efficient then stopping/starting the timer eahc time you want 1139This is more slightly efficient then stopping/starting the timer each time
949to modify its timeout value. 1140you want to modify its timeout value.
950 1141
951=item ev_tstamp repeat [read-write] 1142=item ev_tstamp repeat [read-write]
952 1143
953The current C<repeat> value. Will be used each time the watcher times out 1144The 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), 1145or C<ev_timer_again> is called and determines the next timeout (if any),
996but on wallclock time (absolute time). You can tell a periodic watcher 1187but on wallclock time (absolute time). You can tell a periodic watcher
997to trigger "at" some specific point in time. For example, if you tell a 1188to trigger "at" some specific point in time. For example, if you tell a
998periodic watcher to trigger in 10 seconds (by specifiying e.g. C<ev_now () 1189periodic watcher to trigger in 10 seconds (by specifiying e.g. C<ev_now ()
999+ 10.>) and then reset your system clock to the last year, then it will 1190+ 10.>) and then reset your system clock to the last year, then it will
1000take a year to trigger the event (unlike an C<ev_timer>, which would trigger 1191take a year to trigger the event (unlike an C<ev_timer>, which would trigger
1001roughly 10 seconds later and of course not if you reset your system time 1192roughly 10 seconds later).
1002again).
1003 1193
1004They can also be used to implement vastly more complex timers, such as 1194They can also be used to implement vastly more complex timers, such as
1005triggering an event on eahc midnight, local time. 1195triggering an event on each midnight, local time or other, complicated,
1196rules.
1006 1197
1007As with timers, the callback is guarenteed to be invoked only when the 1198As with timers, the callback is guarenteed to be invoked only when the
1008time (C<at>) has been passed, but if multiple periodic timers become ready 1199time (C<at>) has been passed, but if multiple periodic timers become ready
1009during the same loop iteration then order of execution is undefined. 1200during the same loop iteration then order of execution is undefined.
1010 1201
1202=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1203
1011=over 4 1204=over 4
1012 1205
1013=item ev_periodic_init (ev_periodic *, callback, ev_tstamp at, ev_tstamp interval, reschedule_cb) 1206=item ev_periodic_init (ev_periodic *, callback, ev_tstamp at, ev_tstamp interval, reschedule_cb)
1014 1207
1015=item ev_periodic_set (ev_periodic *, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat, reschedule_cb) 1208=item ev_periodic_set (ev_periodic *, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat, reschedule_cb)
1017Lots of arguments, lets sort it out... There are basically three modes of 1210Lots of arguments, lets sort it out... There are basically three modes of
1018operation, and we will explain them from simplest to complex: 1211operation, and we will explain them from simplest to complex:
1019 1212
1020=over 4 1213=over 4
1021 1214
1022=item * absolute timer (interval = reschedule_cb = 0) 1215=item * absolute timer (at = time, interval = reschedule_cb = 0)
1023 1216
1024In this configuration the watcher triggers an event at the wallclock time 1217In this configuration the watcher triggers an event at the wallclock time
1025C<at> and doesn't repeat. It will not adjust when a time jump occurs, 1218C<at> and doesn't repeat. It will not adjust when a time jump occurs,
1026that is, if it is to be run at January 1st 2011 then it will run when the 1219that is, if it is to be run at January 1st 2011 then it will run when the
1027system time reaches or surpasses this time. 1220system time reaches or surpasses this time.
1028 1221
1029=item * non-repeating interval timer (interval > 0, reschedule_cb = 0) 1222=item * non-repeating interval timer (at = offset, interval > 0, reschedule_cb = 0)
1030 1223
1031In this mode the watcher will always be scheduled to time out at the next 1224In this mode the watcher will always be scheduled to time out at the next
1032C<at + N * interval> time (for some integer N) and then repeat, regardless 1225C<at + N * interval> time (for some integer N, which can also be negative)
1033of any time jumps. 1226and then repeat, regardless of any time jumps.
1034 1227
1035This can be used to create timers that do not drift with respect to system 1228This can be used to create timers that do not drift with respect to system
1036time: 1229time:
1037 1230
1038 ev_periodic_set (&periodic, 0., 3600., 0); 1231 ev_periodic_set (&periodic, 0., 3600., 0);
1044 1237
1045Another way to think about it (for the mathematically inclined) is that 1238Another way to think about it (for the mathematically inclined) is that
1046C<ev_periodic> will try to run the callback in this mode at the next possible 1239C<ev_periodic> will try to run the callback in this mode at the next possible
1047time where C<time = at (mod interval)>, regardless of any time jumps. 1240time where C<time = at (mod interval)>, regardless of any time jumps.
1048 1241
1242For numerical stability it is preferable that the C<at> value is near
1243C<ev_now ()> (the current time), but there is no range requirement for
1244this value.
1245
1049=item * manual reschedule mode (reschedule_cb = callback) 1246=item * manual reschedule mode (at and interval ignored, reschedule_cb = callback)
1050 1247
1051In this mode the values for C<interval> and C<at> are both being 1248In this mode the values for C<interval> and C<at> are both being
1052ignored. Instead, each time the periodic watcher gets scheduled, the 1249ignored. Instead, each time the periodic watcher gets scheduled, the
1053reschedule callback will be called with the watcher as first, and the 1250reschedule callback will be called with the watcher as first, and the
1054current time as second argument. 1251current time as second argument.
1055 1252
1056NOTE: I<This callback MUST NOT stop or destroy any periodic watcher, 1253NOTE: I<This callback MUST NOT stop or destroy any periodic watcher,
1057ever, or make any event loop modifications>. If you need to stop it, 1254ever, or make any event loop modifications>. If you need to stop it,
1058return C<now + 1e30> (or so, fudge fudge) and stop it afterwards (e.g. by 1255return C<now + 1e30> (or so, fudge fudge) and stop it afterwards (e.g. by
1059starting a prepare watcher). 1256starting an C<ev_prepare> watcher, which is legal).
1060 1257
1061Its prototype is C<ev_tstamp (*reschedule_cb)(struct ev_periodic *w, 1258Its prototype is C<ev_tstamp (*reschedule_cb)(struct ev_periodic *w,
1062ev_tstamp now)>, e.g.: 1259ev_tstamp now)>, e.g.:
1063 1260
1064 static ev_tstamp my_rescheduler (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now) 1261 static ev_tstamp my_rescheduler (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now)
1087Simply stops and restarts the periodic watcher again. This is only useful 1284Simply stops and restarts the periodic watcher again. This is only useful
1088when you changed some parameters or the reschedule callback would return 1285when you changed some parameters or the reschedule callback would return
1089a different time than the last time it was called (e.g. in a crond like 1286a different time than the last time it was called (e.g. in a crond like
1090program when the crontabs have changed). 1287program when the crontabs have changed).
1091 1288
1289=item ev_tstamp offset [read-write]
1290
1291When repeating, this contains the offset value, otherwise this is the
1292absolute point in time (the C<at> value passed to C<ev_periodic_set>).
1293
1294Can be modified any time, but changes only take effect when the periodic
1295timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being called.
1296
1092=item ev_tstamp interval [read-write] 1297=item ev_tstamp interval [read-write]
1093 1298
1094The current interval value. Can be modified any time, but changes only 1299The 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 1300take effect when the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being
1096called. 1301called.
1098=item ev_tstamp (*reschedule_cb)(struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now) [read-write] 1303=item ev_tstamp (*reschedule_cb)(struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now) [read-write]
1099 1304
1100The current reschedule callback, or C<0>, if this functionality is 1305The current reschedule callback, or C<0>, if this functionality is
1101switched off. Can be changed any time, but changes only take effect when 1306switched off. Can be changed any time, but changes only take effect when
1102the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being called. 1307the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being called.
1308
1309=item ev_tstamp at [read-only]
1310
1311When active, contains the absolute time that the watcher is supposed to
1312trigger next.
1103 1313
1104=back 1314=back
1105 1315
1106Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the 1316Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the
1107system clock is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have 1317system clock is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have
1149with the kernel (thus it coexists with your own signal handlers as long 1359with the kernel (thus it coexists with your own signal handlers as long
1150as you don't register any with libev). Similarly, when the last signal 1360as you don't register any with libev). Similarly, when the last signal
1151watcher for a signal is stopped libev will reset the signal handler to 1361watcher for a signal is stopped libev will reset the signal handler to
1152SIG_DFL (regardless of what it was set to before). 1362SIG_DFL (regardless of what it was set to before).
1153 1363
1364=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1365
1154=over 4 1366=over 4
1155 1367
1156=item ev_signal_init (ev_signal *, callback, int signum) 1368=item ev_signal_init (ev_signal *, callback, int signum)
1157 1369
1158=item ev_signal_set (ev_signal *, int signum) 1370=item ev_signal_set (ev_signal *, int signum)
1169 1381
1170=head2 C<ev_child> - watch out for process status changes 1382=head2 C<ev_child> - watch out for process status changes
1171 1383
1172Child watchers trigger when your process receives a SIGCHLD in response to 1384Child watchers trigger when your process receives a SIGCHLD in response to
1173some child status changes (most typically when a child of yours dies). 1385some child status changes (most typically when a child of yours dies).
1386
1387=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1174 1388
1175=over 4 1389=over 4
1176 1390
1177=item ev_child_init (ev_child *, callback, int pid) 1391=item ev_child_init (ev_child *, callback, int pid)
1178 1392
1246reader). Inotify will be used to give hints only and should not change the 1460reader). Inotify will be used to give hints only and should not change the
1247semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers, which means that libev sometimes needs 1461semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers, which means that libev sometimes needs
1248to fall back to regular polling again even with inotify, but changes are 1462to fall back to regular polling again even with inotify, but changes are
1249usually detected immediately, and if the file exists there will be no 1463usually detected immediately, and if the file exists there will be no
1250polling. 1464polling.
1465
1466=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1251 1467
1252=over 4 1468=over 4
1253 1469
1254=item ev_stat_init (ev_stat *, callback, const char *path, ev_tstamp interval) 1470=item ev_stat_init (ev_stat *, callback, const char *path, ev_tstamp interval)
1255 1471
1319 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd); 1535 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd);
1320 1536
1321 1537
1322=head2 C<ev_idle> - when you've got nothing better to do... 1538=head2 C<ev_idle> - when you've got nothing better to do...
1323 1539
1324Idle watchers trigger events when there are no other events are pending 1540Idle watchers trigger events when no other events of the same or higher
1325(prepare, check and other idle watchers do not count). That is, as long 1541priority are pending (prepare, check and other idle watchers do not
1326as your process is busy handling sockets or timeouts (or even signals, 1542count).
1327imagine) it will not be triggered. But when your process is idle all idle 1543
1328watchers are being called again and again, once per event loop iteration - 1544That is, as long as your process is busy handling sockets or timeouts
1545(or even signals, imagine) of the same or higher priority it will not be
1546triggered. But when your process is idle (or only lower-priority watchers
1547are pending), the idle watchers are being called once per event loop
1329until stopped, that is, or your process receives more events and becomes 1548iteration - until stopped, that is, or your process receives more events
1330busy. 1549and becomes busy again with higher priority stuff.
1331 1550
1332The most noteworthy effect is that as long as any idle watchers are 1551The most noteworthy effect is that as long as any idle watchers are
1333active, the process will not block when waiting for new events. 1552active, the process will not block when waiting for new events.
1334 1553
1335Apart from keeping your process non-blocking (which is a useful 1554Apart from keeping your process non-blocking (which is a useful
1336effect on its own sometimes), idle watchers are a good place to do 1555effect on its own sometimes), idle watchers are a good place to do
1337"pseudo-background processing", or delay processing stuff to after the 1556"pseudo-background processing", or delay processing stuff to after the
1338event loop has handled all outstanding events. 1557event loop has handled all outstanding events.
1558
1559=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1339 1560
1340=over 4 1561=over 4
1341 1562
1342=item ev_idle_init (ev_signal *, callback) 1563=item ev_idle_init (ev_signal *, callback)
1343 1564
1401with priority higher than or equal to the event loop and one coroutine 1622with priority higher than or equal to the event loop and one coroutine
1402of lower priority, but only once, using idle watchers to keep the event 1623of lower priority, but only once, using idle watchers to keep the event
1403loop from blocking if lower-priority coroutines are active, thus mapping 1624loop from blocking if lower-priority coroutines are active, thus mapping
1404low-priority coroutines to idle/background tasks). 1625low-priority coroutines to idle/background tasks).
1405 1626
1627It is recommended to give C<ev_check> watchers highest (C<EV_MAXPRI>)
1628priority, to ensure that they are being run before any other watchers
1629after the poll. Also, C<ev_check> watchers (and C<ev_prepare> watchers,
1630too) should not activate ("feed") events into libev. While libev fully
1631supports this, they will be called before other C<ev_check> watchers
1632did their job. As C<ev_check> watchers are often used to embed other
1633(non-libev) event loops those other event loops might be in an unusable
1634state until their C<ev_check> watcher ran (always remind yourself to
1635coexist peacefully with others).
1636
1637=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1638
1406=over 4 1639=over 4
1407 1640
1408=item ev_prepare_init (ev_prepare *, callback) 1641=item ev_prepare_init (ev_prepare *, callback)
1409 1642
1410=item ev_check_init (ev_check *, callback) 1643=item ev_check_init (ev_check *, callback)
1413parameters of any kind. There are C<ev_prepare_set> and C<ev_check_set> 1646parameters of any kind. There are C<ev_prepare_set> and C<ev_check_set>
1414macros, but using them is utterly, utterly and completely pointless. 1647macros, but using them is utterly, utterly and completely pointless.
1415 1648
1416=back 1649=back
1417 1650
1418Example: To include a library such as adns, you would add IO watchers 1651There are a number of principal ways to embed other event loops or modules
1419and a timeout watcher in a prepare handler, as required by libadns, and 1652into libev. Here are some ideas on how to include libadns into libev
1653(there is a Perl module named C<EV::ADNS> that does this, which you could
1654use for an actually working example. Another Perl module named C<EV::Glib>
1655embeds a Glib main context into libev, and finally, C<Glib::EV> embeds EV
1656into the Glib event loop).
1657
1658Method 1: Add IO watchers and a timeout watcher in a prepare handler,
1420in a check watcher, destroy them and call into libadns. What follows is 1659and in a check watcher, destroy them and call into libadns. What follows
1421pseudo-code only of course: 1660is pseudo-code only of course. This requires you to either use a low
1661priority for the check watcher or use C<ev_clear_pending> explicitly, as
1662the callbacks for the IO/timeout watchers might not have been called yet.
1422 1663
1423 static ev_io iow [nfd]; 1664 static ev_io iow [nfd];
1424 static ev_timer tw; 1665 static ev_timer tw;
1425 1666
1426 static void 1667 static void
1427 io_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents) 1668 io_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents)
1428 { 1669 {
1429 // set the relevant poll flags
1430 // could also call adns_processreadable etc. here
1431 struct pollfd *fd = (struct pollfd *)w->data;
1432 if (revents & EV_READ ) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLIN;
1433 if (revents & EV_WRITE) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLOUT;
1434 } 1670 }
1435 1671
1436 // create io watchers for each fd and a timer before blocking 1672 // create io watchers for each fd and a timer before blocking
1437 static void 1673 static void
1438 adns_prepare_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_prepare *w, int revents) 1674 adns_prepare_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_prepare *w, int revents)
1439 { 1675 {
1440 int timeout = 3600000;truct pollfd fds [nfd]; 1676 int timeout = 3600000;
1677 struct pollfd fds [nfd];
1441 // actual code will need to loop here and realloc etc. 1678 // actual code will need to loop here and realloc etc.
1442 adns_beforepoll (ads, fds, &nfd, &timeout, timeval_from (ev_time ())); 1679 adns_beforepoll (ads, fds, &nfd, &timeout, timeval_from (ev_time ()));
1443 1680
1444 /* the callback is illegal, but won't be called as we stop during check */ 1681 /* the callback is illegal, but won't be called as we stop during check */
1445 ev_timer_init (&tw, 0, timeout * 1e-3); 1682 ev_timer_init (&tw, 0, timeout * 1e-3);
1446 ev_timer_start (loop, &tw); 1683 ev_timer_start (loop, &tw);
1447 1684
1448 // create on ev_io per pollfd 1685 // create one ev_io per pollfd
1449 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i) 1686 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i)
1450 { 1687 {
1451 ev_io_init (iow + i, io_cb, fds [i].fd, 1688 ev_io_init (iow + i, io_cb, fds [i].fd,
1452 ((fds [i].events & POLLIN ? EV_READ : 0) 1689 ((fds [i].events & POLLIN ? EV_READ : 0)
1453 | (fds [i].events & POLLOUT ? EV_WRITE : 0))); 1690 | (fds [i].events & POLLOUT ? EV_WRITE : 0)));
1454 1691
1455 fds [i].revents = 0; 1692 fds [i].revents = 0;
1456 iow [i].data = fds + i;
1457 ev_io_start (loop, iow + i); 1693 ev_io_start (loop, iow + i);
1458 } 1694 }
1459 } 1695 }
1460 1696
1461 // stop all watchers after blocking 1697 // stop all watchers after blocking
1463 adns_check_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_check *w, int revents) 1699 adns_check_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_check *w, int revents)
1464 { 1700 {
1465 ev_timer_stop (loop, &tw); 1701 ev_timer_stop (loop, &tw);
1466 1702
1467 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i) 1703 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i)
1704 {
1705 // set the relevant poll flags
1706 // could also call adns_processreadable etc. here
1707 struct pollfd *fd = fds + i;
1708 int revents = ev_clear_pending (iow + i);
1709 if (revents & EV_READ ) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLIN;
1710 if (revents & EV_WRITE) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLOUT;
1711
1712 // now stop the watcher
1468 ev_io_stop (loop, iow + i); 1713 ev_io_stop (loop, iow + i);
1714 }
1469 1715
1470 adns_afterpoll (adns, fds, nfd, timeval_from (ev_now (loop)); 1716 adns_afterpoll (adns, fds, nfd, timeval_from (ev_now (loop));
1717 }
1718
1719Method 2: This would be just like method 1, but you run C<adns_afterpoll>
1720in the prepare watcher and would dispose of the check watcher.
1721
1722Method 3: If the module to be embedded supports explicit event
1723notification (adns does), you can also make use of the actual watcher
1724callbacks, and only destroy/create the watchers in the prepare watcher.
1725
1726 static void
1727 timer_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1728 {
1729 adns_state ads = (adns_state)w->data;
1730 update_now (EV_A);
1731
1732 adns_processtimeouts (ads, &tv_now);
1733 }
1734
1735 static void
1736 io_cb (EV_P_ ev_io *w, int revents)
1737 {
1738 adns_state ads = (adns_state)w->data;
1739 update_now (EV_A);
1740
1741 if (revents & EV_READ ) adns_processreadable (ads, w->fd, &tv_now);
1742 if (revents & EV_WRITE) adns_processwriteable (ads, w->fd, &tv_now);
1743 }
1744
1745 // do not ever call adns_afterpoll
1746
1747Method 4: Do not use a prepare or check watcher because the module you
1748want to embed is too inflexible to support it. Instead, youc na override
1749their poll function. The drawback with this solution is that the main
1750loop is now no longer controllable by EV. The C<Glib::EV> module does
1751this.
1752
1753 static gint
1754 event_poll_func (GPollFD *fds, guint nfds, gint timeout)
1755 {
1756 int got_events = 0;
1757
1758 for (n = 0; n < nfds; ++n)
1759 // create/start io watcher that sets the relevant bits in fds[n] and increment got_events
1760
1761 if (timeout >= 0)
1762 // create/start timer
1763
1764 // poll
1765 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0);
1766
1767 // stop timer again
1768 if (timeout >= 0)
1769 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &to);
1770
1771 // stop io watchers again - their callbacks should have set
1772 for (n = 0; n < nfds; ++n)
1773 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ iow [n]);
1774
1775 return got_events;
1471 } 1776 }
1472 1777
1473 1778
1474=head2 C<ev_embed> - when one backend isn't enough... 1779=head2 C<ev_embed> - when one backend isn't enough...
1475 1780
1539 ev_embed_start (loop_hi, &embed); 1844 ev_embed_start (loop_hi, &embed);
1540 } 1845 }
1541 else 1846 else
1542 loop_lo = loop_hi; 1847 loop_lo = loop_hi;
1543 1848
1849=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1850
1544=over 4 1851=over 4
1545 1852
1546=item ev_embed_init (ev_embed *, callback, struct ev_loop *embedded_loop) 1853=item ev_embed_init (ev_embed *, callback, struct ev_loop *embedded_loop)
1547 1854
1548=item ev_embed_set (ev_embed *, callback, struct ev_loop *embedded_loop) 1855=item ev_embed_set (ev_embed *, callback, struct ev_loop *embedded_loop)
1557 1864
1558Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works 1865Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works
1559similarly to C<ev_loop (embedded_loop, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK)>, but in the most 1866similarly to C<ev_loop (embedded_loop, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK)>, but in the most
1560apropriate way for embedded loops. 1867apropriate way for embedded loops.
1561 1868
1562=item struct ev_loop *loop [read-only] 1869=item struct ev_loop *other [read-only]
1563 1870
1564The embedded event loop. 1871The embedded event loop.
1565 1872
1566=back 1873=back
1567 1874
1574event loop blocks next and before C<ev_check> watchers are being called, 1881event loop blocks next and before C<ev_check> watchers are being called,
1575and only in the child after the fork. If whoever good citizen calling 1882and only in the child after the fork. If whoever good citizen calling
1576C<ev_default_fork> cheats and calls it in the wrong process, the fork 1883C<ev_default_fork> cheats and calls it in the wrong process, the fork
1577handlers will be invoked, too, of course. 1884handlers will be invoked, too, of course.
1578 1885
1886=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1887
1579=over 4 1888=over 4
1580 1889
1581=item ev_fork_init (ev_signal *, callback) 1890=item ev_fork_init (ev_signal *, callback)
1582 1891
1583Initialises and configures the fork watcher - it has no parameters of any 1892Initialises and configures the fork watcher - it has no parameters of any
1679 1988
1680To use it, 1989To use it,
1681 1990
1682 #include <ev++.h> 1991 #include <ev++.h>
1683 1992
1684(it is not installed by default). This automatically includes F<ev.h> 1993This automatically includes F<ev.h> and puts all of its definitions (many
1685and puts all of its definitions (many of them macros) into the global 1994of them macros) into the global namespace. All C++ specific things are
1686namespace. All C++ specific things are put into the C<ev> namespace. 1995put into the C<ev> namespace. It should support all the same embedding
1996options as F<ev.h>, most notably C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>.
1687 1997
1688It should support all the same embedding options as F<ev.h>, most notably 1998Care has been taken to keep the overhead low. The only data member the C++
1689C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>. 1999classes add (compared to plain C-style watchers) is the event loop pointer
2000that the watcher is associated with (or no additional members at all if
2001you disable C<EV_MULTIPLICITY> when embedding libev).
2002
2003Currently, functions, and static and non-static member functions can be
2004used as callbacks. Other types should be easy to add as long as they only
2005need one additional pointer for context. If you need support for other
2006types of functors please contact the author (preferably after implementing
2007it).
1690 2008
1691Here is a list of things available in the C<ev> namespace: 2009Here is a list of things available in the C<ev> namespace:
1692 2010
1693=over 4 2011=over 4
1694 2012
1710 2028
1711All of those classes have these methods: 2029All of those classes have these methods:
1712 2030
1713=over 4 2031=over 4
1714 2032
1715=item ev::TYPE::TYPE (object *, object::method *) 2033=item ev::TYPE::TYPE ()
1716 2034
1717=item ev::TYPE::TYPE (object *, object::method *, struct ev_loop *) 2035=item ev::TYPE::TYPE (struct ev_loop *)
1718 2036
1719=item ev::TYPE::~TYPE 2037=item ev::TYPE::~TYPE
1720 2038
1721The constructor takes a pointer to an object and a method pointer to 2039The constructor (optionally) takes an event loop to associate the watcher
1722the event handler callback to call in this class. The constructor calls 2040with. If it is omitted, it will use C<EV_DEFAULT>.
1723C<ev_init> for you, which means you have to call the C<set> method 2041
1724before starting it. If you do not specify a loop then the constructor 2042The constructor calls C<ev_init> for you, which means you have to call the
1725automatically associates the default loop with this watcher. 2043C<set> method before starting it.
2044
2045It will not set a callback, however: You have to call the templated C<set>
2046method to set a callback before you can start the watcher.
2047
2048(The reason why you have to use a method is a limitation in C++ which does
2049not allow explicit template arguments for constructors).
1726 2050
1727The destructor automatically stops the watcher if it is active. 2051The destructor automatically stops the watcher if it is active.
2052
2053=item w->set<class, &class::method> (object *)
2054
2055This method sets the callback method to call. The method has to have a
2056signature of C<void (*)(ev_TYPE &, int)>, it receives the watcher as
2057first argument and the C<revents> as second. The object must be given as
2058parameter and is stored in the C<data> member of the watcher.
2059
2060This method synthesizes efficient thunking code to call your method from
2061the C callback that libev requires. If your compiler can inline your
2062callback (i.e. it is visible to it at the place of the C<set> call and
2063your compiler is good :), then the method will be fully inlined into the
2064thunking function, making it as fast as a direct C callback.
2065
2066Example: simple class declaration and watcher initialisation
2067
2068 struct myclass
2069 {
2070 void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { }
2071 }
2072
2073 myclass obj;
2074 ev::io iow;
2075 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj);
2076
2077=item w->set<function> (void *data = 0)
2078
2079Also sets a callback, but uses a static method or plain function as
2080callback. The optional C<data> argument will be stored in the watcher's
2081C<data> member and is free for you to use.
2082
2083The prototype of the C<function> must be C<void (*)(ev::TYPE &w, int)>.
2084
2085See the method-C<set> above for more details.
2086
2087Example:
2088
2089 static void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { }
2090 iow.set <io_cb> ();
1728 2091
1729=item w->set (struct ev_loop *) 2092=item w->set (struct ev_loop *)
1730 2093
1731Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only 2094Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only
1732do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either). 2095do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either).
1733 2096
1734=item w->set ([args]) 2097=item w->set ([args])
1735 2098
1736Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same args. Must be 2099Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same args. Must be
1737called at least once. Unlike the C counterpart, an active watcher gets 2100called at least once. Unlike the C counterpart, an active watcher gets
1738automatically stopped and restarted. 2101automatically stopped and restarted when reconfiguring it with this
2102method.
1739 2103
1740=item w->start () 2104=item w->start ()
1741 2105
1742Starts the watcher. Note that there is no C<loop> argument as the 2106Starts the watcher. Note that there is no C<loop> argument, as the
1743constructor already takes the loop. 2107constructor already stores the event loop.
1744 2108
1745=item w->stop () 2109=item w->stop ()
1746 2110
1747Stops the watcher if it is active. Again, no C<loop> argument. 2111Stops the watcher if it is active. Again, no C<loop> argument.
1748 2112
1749=item w->again () C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic> only 2113=item w->again () (C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic> only)
1750 2114
1751For C<ev::timer> and C<ev::periodic>, this invokes the corresponding 2115For C<ev::timer> and C<ev::periodic>, this invokes the corresponding
1752C<ev_TYPE_again> function. 2116C<ev_TYPE_again> function.
1753 2117
1754=item w->sweep () C<ev::embed> only 2118=item w->sweep () (C<ev::embed> only)
1755 2119
1756Invokes C<ev_embed_sweep>. 2120Invokes C<ev_embed_sweep>.
1757 2121
1758=item w->update () C<ev::stat> only 2122=item w->update () (C<ev::stat> only)
1759 2123
1760Invokes C<ev_stat_stat>. 2124Invokes C<ev_stat_stat>.
1761 2125
1762=back 2126=back
1763 2127
1773 2137
1774 myclass (); 2138 myclass ();
1775 } 2139 }
1776 2140
1777 myclass::myclass (int fd) 2141 myclass::myclass (int fd)
1778 : io (this, &myclass::io_cb),
1779 idle (this, &myclass::idle_cb)
1780 { 2142 {
2143 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this);
2144 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this);
2145
1781 io.start (fd, ev::READ); 2146 io.start (fd, ev::READ);
1782 } 2147 }
1783 2148
1784 2149
1785=head1 MACRO MAGIC 2150=head1 MACRO MAGIC
1786 2151
1787Libev can be compiled with a variety of options, the most fundemantal is 2152Libev can be compiled with a variety of options, the most fundamantal
1788C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>. This option determines wether (most) functions and 2153of which is C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>. This option determines whether (most)
1789callbacks have an initial C<struct ev_loop *> argument. 2154functions and callbacks have an initial C<struct ev_loop *> argument.
1790 2155
1791To make it easier to write programs that cope with either variant, the 2156To make it easier to write programs that cope with either variant, the
1792following macros are defined: 2157following macros are defined:
1793 2158
1794=over 4 2159=over 4
1826Similar to the other two macros, this gives you the value of the default 2191Similar to the other two macros, this gives you the value of the default
1827loop, if multiple loops are supported ("ev loop default"). 2192loop, if multiple loops are supported ("ev loop default").
1828 2193
1829=back 2194=back
1830 2195
1831Example: Declare and initialise a check watcher, working regardless of 2196Example: Declare and initialise a check watcher, utilising the above
1832wether multiple loops are supported or not. 2197macros so it will work regardless of whether multiple loops are supported
2198or not.
1833 2199
1834 static void 2200 static void
1835 check_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 2201 check_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1836 { 2202 {
1837 ev_check_stop (EV_A_ w); 2203 ev_check_stop (EV_A_ w);
1840 ev_check check; 2206 ev_check check;
1841 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb); 2207 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb);
1842 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check); 2208 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check);
1843 ev_loop (EV_DEFAULT_ 0); 2209 ev_loop (EV_DEFAULT_ 0);
1844 2210
1845
1846=head1 EMBEDDING 2211=head1 EMBEDDING
1847 2212
1848Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host 2213Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host
1849applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra 2214applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra
1850Game Server, the EV perl module, the GNU Virtual Private Ethernet (gvpe) 2215Game Server, the EV perl module, the GNU Virtual Private Ethernet (gvpe)
1851and rxvt-unicode. 2216and rxvt-unicode.
1852 2217
1853The goal is to enable you to just copy the neecssary files into your 2218The goal is to enable you to just copy the necessary files into your
1854source directory without having to change even a single line in them, so 2219source directory without having to change even a single line in them, so
1855you can easily upgrade by simply copying (or having a checked-out copy of 2220you can easily upgrade by simply copying (or having a checked-out copy of
1856libev somewhere in your source tree). 2221libev somewhere in your source tree).
1857 2222
1858=head2 FILESETS 2223=head2 FILESETS
1889 ev_vars.h 2254 ev_vars.h
1890 ev_wrap.h 2255 ev_wrap.h
1891 2256
1892 ev_win32.c required on win32 platforms only 2257 ev_win32.c required on win32 platforms only
1893 2258
1894 ev_select.c only when select backend is enabled (which is by default) 2259 ev_select.c only when select backend is enabled (which is enabled by default)
1895 ev_poll.c only when poll backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2260 ev_poll.c only when poll backend is enabled (disabled by default)
1896 ev_epoll.c only when the epoll backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2261 ev_epoll.c only when the epoll backend is enabled (disabled by default)
1897 ev_kqueue.c only when the kqueue backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2262 ev_kqueue.c only when the kqueue backend is enabled (disabled by default)
1898 ev_port.c only when the solaris port backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2263 ev_port.c only when the solaris port backend is enabled (disabled by default)
1899 2264
1948 2313
1949If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the 2314If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the
1950monotonic clock option at both compiletime and runtime. Otherwise no use 2315monotonic clock option at both compiletime and runtime. Otherwise no use
1951of the monotonic clock option will be attempted. If you enable this, you 2316of the monotonic clock option will be attempted. If you enable this, you
1952usually have to link against librt or something similar. Enabling it when 2317usually have to link against librt or something similar. Enabling it when
1953the functionality isn't available is safe, though, althoguh you have 2318the functionality isn't available is safe, though, although you have
1954to make sure you link against any libraries where the C<clock_gettime> 2319to make sure you link against any libraries where the C<clock_gettime>
1955function is hiding in (often F<-lrt>). 2320function is hiding in (often F<-lrt>).
1956 2321
1957=item EV_USE_REALTIME 2322=item EV_USE_REALTIME
1958 2323
1959If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the 2324If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the
1960realtime clock option at compiletime (and assume its availability at 2325realtime clock option at compiletime (and assume its availability at
1961runtime if successful). Otherwise no use of the realtime clock option will 2326runtime if successful). Otherwise no use of the realtime clock option will
1962be attempted. This effectively replaces C<gettimeofday> by C<clock_get 2327be attempted. This effectively replaces C<gettimeofday> by C<clock_get
1963(CLOCK_REALTIME, ...)> and will not normally affect correctness. See tzhe note about libraries 2328(CLOCK_REALTIME, ...)> and will not normally affect correctness. See the
1964in the description of C<EV_USE_MONOTONIC>, though. 2329note about libraries in the description of C<EV_USE_MONOTONIC>, though.
2330
2331=item EV_USE_NANOSLEEP
2332
2333If defined to be C<1>, libev will assume that C<nanosleep ()> is available
2334and will use it for delays. Otherwise it will use C<select ()>.
1965 2335
1966=item EV_USE_SELECT 2336=item EV_USE_SELECT
1967 2337
1968If undefined or defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the 2338If undefined or defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the
1969C<select>(2) backend. No attempt at autodetection will be done: if no 2339C<select>(2) backend. No attempt at autodetection will be done: if no
2062will have the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument, and you can create 2432will have the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument, and you can create
2063additional independent event loops. Otherwise there will be no support 2433additional independent event loops. Otherwise there will be no support
2064for multiple event loops and there is no first event loop pointer 2434for multiple event loops and there is no first event loop pointer
2065argument. Instead, all functions act on the single default loop. 2435argument. Instead, all functions act on the single default loop.
2066 2436
2437=item EV_MINPRI
2438
2439=item EV_MAXPRI
2440
2441The range of allowed priorities. C<EV_MINPRI> must be smaller or equal to
2442C<EV_MAXPRI>, but otherwise there are no non-obvious limitations. You can
2443provide for more priorities by overriding those symbols (usually defined
2444to be C<-2> and C<2>, respectively).
2445
2446When doing priority-based operations, libev usually has to linearly search
2447all the priorities, so having many of them (hundreds) uses a lot of space
2448and time, so using the defaults of five priorities (-2 .. +2) is usually
2449fine.
2450
2451If your embedding app does not need any priorities, defining these both to
2452C<0> will save some memory and cpu.
2453
2067=item EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 2454=item EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE
2068 2455
2069If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then periodic timers are supported. If 2456If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then periodic timers are supported. If
2457defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of
2458code.
2459
2460=item EV_IDLE_ENABLE
2461
2462If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then idle watchers are supported. If
2070defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of 2463defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of
2071code. 2464code.
2072 2465
2073=item EV_EMBED_ENABLE 2466=item EV_EMBED_ENABLE
2074 2467
2125 2518
2126=item ev_set_cb (ev, cb) 2519=item ev_set_cb (ev, cb)
2127 2520
2128Can be used to change the callback member declaration in each watcher, 2521Can be used to change the callback member declaration in each watcher,
2129and the way callbacks are invoked and set. Must expand to a struct member 2522and the way callbacks are invoked and set. Must expand to a struct member
2130definition and a statement, respectively. See the F<ev.v> header file for 2523definition and a statement, respectively. See the F<ev.h> header file for
2131their default definitions. One possible use for overriding these is to 2524their default definitions. One possible use for overriding these is to
2132avoid the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument in all cases, or to use 2525avoid the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument in all cases, or to use
2133method calls instead of plain function calls in C++. 2526method calls instead of plain function calls in C++.
2527
2528=head2 EXPORTED API SYMBOLS
2529
2530If you need to re-export the API (e.g. via a dll) and you need a list of
2531exported symbols, you can use the provided F<Symbol.*> files which list
2532all public symbols, one per line:
2533
2534 Symbols.ev for libev proper
2535 Symbols.event for the libevent emulation
2536
2537This can also be used to rename all public symbols to avoid clashes with
2538multiple versions of libev linked together (which is obviously bad in
2539itself, but sometimes it is inconvinient to avoid this).
2540
2541A sed command like this will create wrapper C<#define>'s that you need to
2542include before including F<ev.h>:
2543
2544 <Symbols.ev sed -e "s/.*/#define & myprefix_&/" >wrap.h
2545
2546This would create a file F<wrap.h> which essentially looks like this:
2547
2548 #define ev_backend myprefix_ev_backend
2549 #define ev_check_start myprefix_ev_check_start
2550 #define ev_check_stop myprefix_ev_check_stop
2551 ...
2134 2552
2135=head2 EXAMPLES 2553=head2 EXAMPLES
2136 2554
2137For a real-world example of a program the includes libev 2555For a real-world example of a program the includes libev
2138verbatim, you can have a look at the EV perl module 2556verbatim, you can have a look at the EV perl module
2141interface) and F<EV.xs> (implementation) files. Only the F<EV.xs> file 2559interface) and F<EV.xs> (implementation) files. Only the F<EV.xs> file
2142will be compiled. It is pretty complex because it provides its own header 2560will be compiled. It is pretty complex because it provides its own header
2143file. 2561file.
2144 2562
2145The usage in rxvt-unicode is simpler. It has a F<ev_cpp.h> header file 2563The usage in rxvt-unicode is simpler. It has a F<ev_cpp.h> header file
2146that everybody includes and which overrides some autoconf choices: 2564that everybody includes and which overrides some configure choices:
2147 2565
2566 #define EV_MINIMAL 1
2148 #define EV_USE_POLL 0 2567 #define EV_USE_POLL 0
2149 #define EV_MULTIPLICITY 0 2568 #define EV_MULTIPLICITY 0
2150 #define EV_PERIODICS 0 2569 #define EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 0
2570 #define EV_STAT_ENABLE 0
2571 #define EV_FORK_ENABLE 0
2151 #define EV_CONFIG_H <config.h> 2572 #define EV_CONFIG_H <config.h>
2573 #define EV_MINPRI 0
2574 #define EV_MAXPRI 0
2152 2575
2153 #include "ev++.h" 2576 #include "ev++.h"
2154 2577
2155And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled: 2578And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled:
2156 2579
2162 2585
2163In this section the complexities of (many of) the algorithms used inside 2586In this section the complexities of (many of) the algorithms used inside
2164libev will be explained. For complexity discussions about backends see the 2587libev will be explained. For complexity discussions about backends see the
2165documentation for C<ev_default_init>. 2588documentation for C<ev_default_init>.
2166 2589
2590All of the following are about amortised time: If an array needs to be
2591extended, libev needs to realloc and move the whole array, but this
2592happens asymptotically never with higher number of elements, so O(1) might
2593mean it might do a lengthy realloc operation in rare cases, but on average
2594it is much faster and asymptotically approaches constant time.
2595
2167=over 4 2596=over 4
2168 2597
2169=item Starting and stopping timer/periodic watchers: O(log skipped_other_timers) 2598=item Starting and stopping timer/periodic watchers: O(log skipped_other_timers)
2170 2599
2600This means that, when you have a watcher that triggers in one hour and
2601there are 100 watchers that would trigger before that then inserting will
2602have to skip those 100 watchers.
2603
2171=item Changing timer/periodic watchers (by autorepeat, again): O(log skipped_other_timers) 2604=item Changing timer/periodic watchers (by autorepeat, again): O(log skipped_other_timers)
2172 2605
2606That means that for changing a timer costs less than removing/adding them
2607as only the relative motion in the event queue has to be paid for.
2608
2173=item Starting io/check/prepare/idle/signal/child watchers: O(1) 2609=item Starting io/check/prepare/idle/signal/child watchers: O(1)
2174 2610
2611These just add the watcher into an array or at the head of a list.
2175=item Stopping check/prepare/idle watchers: O(1) 2612=item Stopping check/prepare/idle watchers: O(1)
2176 2613
2177=item Stopping an io/signal/child watcher: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_(fd/signal/pid % EV_PID_HASHSIZE)) 2614=item Stopping an io/signal/child watcher: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_(fd/signal/pid % EV_PID_HASHSIZE))
2178 2615
2616These watchers are stored in lists then need to be walked to find the
2617correct watcher to remove. The lists are usually short (you don't usually
2618have many watchers waiting for the same fd or signal).
2619
2179=item Finding the next timer per loop iteration: O(1) 2620=item Finding the next timer per loop iteration: O(1)
2180 2621
2181=item Each change on a file descriptor per loop iteration: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_fd) 2622=item Each change on a file descriptor per loop iteration: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_fd)
2182 2623
2624A change means an I/O watcher gets started or stopped, which requires
2625libev to recalculate its status (and possibly tell the kernel).
2626
2183=item Activating one watcher: O(1) 2627=item Activating one watcher: O(1)
2184 2628
2629=item Priority handling: O(number_of_priorities)
2630
2631Priorities are implemented by allocating some space for each
2632priority. When doing priority-based operations, libev usually has to
2633linearly search all the priorities.
2634
2185=back 2635=back
2186 2636
2187 2637
2188=head1 AUTHOR 2638=head1 AUTHOR
2189 2639

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