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Revision 1.140 by root, Wed Apr 2 06:34:51 2008 UTC

4 4
5=head1 SYNOPSIS 5=head1 SYNOPSIS
6 6
7 #include <ev.h> 7 #include <ev.h>
8 8
9=head1 EXAMPLE PROGRAM 9=head2 EXAMPLE PROGRAM
10 10
11 // a single header file is required
11 #include <ev.h> 12 #include <ev.h>
12 13
14 // every watcher type has its own typedef'd struct
15 // with the name ev_<type>
13 ev_io stdin_watcher; 16 ev_io stdin_watcher;
14 ev_timer timeout_watcher; 17 ev_timer timeout_watcher;
15 18
19 // all watcher callbacks have a similar signature
16 /* called when data readable on stdin */ 20 // this callback is called when data is readable on stdin
17 static void 21 static void
18 stdin_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_io *w, int revents) 22 stdin_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_io *w, int revents)
19 { 23 {
20 /* puts ("stdin ready"); */ 24 puts ("stdin ready");
21 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w); /* just a syntax example */ 25 // for one-shot events, one must manually stop the watcher
22 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ALL); /* leave all loop calls */ 26 // with its corresponding stop function.
27 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w);
28
29 // this causes all nested ev_loop's to stop iterating
30 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ALL);
23 } 31 }
24 32
33 // another callback, this time for a time-out
25 static void 34 static void
26 timeout_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 35 timeout_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
27 { 36 {
28 /* puts ("timeout"); */ 37 puts ("timeout");
29 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ONE); /* leave one loop call */ 38 // this causes the innermost ev_loop to stop iterating
39 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ONE);
30 } 40 }
31 41
32 int 42 int
33 main (void) 43 main (void)
34 { 44 {
45 // use the default event loop unless you have special needs
35 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0); 46 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0);
36 47
37 /* initialise an io watcher, then start it */ 48 // initialise an io watcher, then start it
49 // this one will watch for stdin to become readable
38 ev_io_init (&stdin_watcher, stdin_cb, /*STDIN_FILENO*/ 0, EV_READ); 50 ev_io_init (&stdin_watcher, stdin_cb, /*STDIN_FILENO*/ 0, EV_READ);
39 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher); 51 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher);
40 52
53 // initialise a timer watcher, then start it
41 /* simple non-repeating 5.5 second timeout */ 54 // simple non-repeating 5.5 second timeout
42 ev_timer_init (&timeout_watcher, timeout_cb, 5.5, 0.); 55 ev_timer_init (&timeout_watcher, timeout_cb, 5.5, 0.);
43 ev_timer_start (loop, &timeout_watcher); 56 ev_timer_start (loop, &timeout_watcher);
44 57
45 /* loop till timeout or data ready */ 58 // now wait for events to arrive
46 ev_loop (loop, 0); 59 ev_loop (loop, 0);
47 60
61 // unloop was called, so exit
48 return 0; 62 return 0;
49 } 63 }
50 64
51=head1 DESCRIPTION 65=head1 DESCRIPTION
52 66
67The newest version of this document is also available as an html-formatted
68web page you might find easier to navigate when reading it for the first
69time: L<http://cvs.schmorp.de/libev/ev.html>.
70
53Libev is an event loop: you register interest in certain events (such as a 71Libev is an event loop: you register interest in certain events (such as a
54file descriptor being readable or a timeout occuring), and it will manage 72file descriptor being readable or a timeout occurring), and it will manage
55these event sources and provide your program with events. 73these event sources and provide your program with events.
56 74
57To do this, it must take more or less complete control over your process 75To do this, it must take more or less complete control over your process
58(or thread) by executing the I<event loop> handler, and will then 76(or thread) by executing the I<event loop> handler, and will then
59communicate events via a callback mechanism. 77communicate events via a callback mechanism.
61You register interest in certain events by registering so-called I<event 79You register interest in certain events by registering so-called I<event
62watchers>, which are relatively small C structures you initialise with the 80watchers>, which are relatively small C structures you initialise with the
63details of the event, and then hand it over to libev by I<starting> the 81details of the event, and then hand it over to libev by I<starting> the
64watcher. 82watcher.
65 83
66=head1 FEATURES 84=head2 FEATURES
67 85
68Libev supports C<select>, C<poll>, the Linux-specific C<epoll>, the 86Libev supports C<select>, C<poll>, the Linux-specific C<epoll>, the
69BSD-specific C<kqueue> and the Solaris-specific event port mechanisms 87BSD-specific C<kqueue> and the Solaris-specific event port mechanisms
70for file descriptor events (C<ev_io>), the Linux C<inotify> interface 88for file descriptor events (C<ev_io>), the Linux C<inotify> interface
71(for C<ev_stat>), relative timers (C<ev_timer>), absolute timers 89(for C<ev_stat>), relative timers (C<ev_timer>), absolute timers
78 96
79It also is quite fast (see this 97It also is quite fast (see this
80L<benchmark|http://libev.schmorp.de/bench.html> comparing it to libevent 98L<benchmark|http://libev.schmorp.de/bench.html> comparing it to libevent
81for example). 99for example).
82 100
83=head1 CONVENTIONS 101=head2 CONVENTIONS
84 102
85Libev is very configurable. In this manual the default configuration will 103Libev is very configurable. In this manual the default (and most common)
86be described, which supports multiple event loops. For more info about 104configuration will be described, which supports multiple event loops. For
87various configuration options please have a look at B<EMBED> section in 105more info about various configuration options please have a look at
88this manual. If libev was configured without support for multiple event 106B<EMBED> section in this manual. If libev was configured without support
89loops, then all functions taking an initial argument of name C<loop> 107for multiple event loops, then all functions taking an initial argument of
90(which is always of type C<struct ev_loop *>) will not have this argument. 108name C<loop> (which is always of type C<struct ev_loop *>) will not have
109this argument.
91 110
92=head1 TIME REPRESENTATION 111=head2 TIME REPRESENTATION
93 112
94Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing the 113Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing the
95(fractional) number of seconds since the (POSIX) epoch (somewhere near 114(fractional) number of seconds since the (POSIX) epoch (somewhere near
96the beginning of 1970, details are complicated, don't ask). This type is 115the beginning of 1970, details are complicated, don't ask). This type is
97called C<ev_tstamp>, which is what you should use too. It usually aliases 116called C<ev_tstamp>, which is what you should use too. It usually aliases
98to the C<double> type in C, and when you need to do any calculations on 117to the C<double> type in C, and when you need to do any calculations on
99it, you should treat it as such. 118it, you should treat it as some floatingpoint value. Unlike the name
119component C<stamp> might indicate, it is also used for time differences
120throughout libev.
100 121
101=head1 GLOBAL FUNCTIONS 122=head1 GLOBAL FUNCTIONS
102 123
103These functions can be called anytime, even before initialising the 124These functions can be called anytime, even before initialising the
104library in any way. 125library in any way.
109 130
110Returns the current time as libev would use it. Please note that the 131Returns 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 132C<ev_now> function is usually faster and also often returns the timestamp
112you actually want to know. 133you actually want to know.
113 134
135=item ev_sleep (ev_tstamp interval)
136
137Sleep for the given interval: The current thread will be blocked until
138either it is interrupted or the given time interval has passed. Basically
139this is a subsecond-resolution C<sleep ()>.
140
114=item int ev_version_major () 141=item int ev_version_major ()
115 142
116=item int ev_version_minor () 143=item int ev_version_minor ()
117 144
118You can find out the major and minor version numbers of the library 145You 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 146you linked against by calling the functions C<ev_version_major> and
120C<ev_version_minor>. If you want, you can compare against the global 147C<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 148symbols C<EV_VERSION_MAJOR> and C<EV_VERSION_MINOR>, which specify the
122version of the library your program was compiled against. 149version of the library your program was compiled against.
123 150
151These version numbers refer to the ABI version of the library, not the
152release version.
153
124Usually, it's a good idea to terminate if the major versions mismatch, 154Usually, it's a good idea to terminate if the major versions mismatch,
125as this indicates an incompatible change. Minor versions are usually 155as this indicates an incompatible change. Minor versions are usually
126compatible to older versions, so a larger minor version alone is usually 156compatible to older versions, so a larger minor version alone is usually
127not a problem. 157not a problem.
128 158
129Example: Make sure we haven't accidentally been linked against the wrong 159Example: Make sure we haven't accidentally been linked against the wrong
130version. 160version.
245flags. If that is troubling you, check C<ev_backend ()> afterwards). 275flags. If that is troubling you, check C<ev_backend ()> afterwards).
246 276
247If you don't know what event loop to use, use the one returned from this 277If you don't know what event loop to use, use the one returned from this
248function. 278function.
249 279
280Note that this function is I<not> thread-safe, so if you want to use it
281from multiple threads, you have to lock (note also that this is unlikely,
282as loops cannot bes hared easily between threads anyway).
283
284The default loop is the only loop that can handle C<ev_signal> and
285C<ev_child> watchers, and to do this, it always registers a handler
286for C<SIGCHLD>. If this is a problem for your app you can either
287create a dynamic loop with C<ev_loop_new> that doesn't do that, or you
288can simply overwrite the C<SIGCHLD> signal handler I<after> calling
289C<ev_default_init>.
290
250The flags argument can be used to specify special behaviour or specific 291The flags argument can be used to specify special behaviour or specific
251backends to use, and is usually specified as C<0> (or C<EVFLAG_AUTO>). 292backends to use, and is usually specified as C<0> (or C<EVFLAG_AUTO>).
252 293
253The following flags are supported: 294The following flags are supported:
254 295
275enabling this flag. 316enabling this flag.
276 317
277This works by calling C<getpid ()> on every iteration of the loop, 318This works by calling C<getpid ()> on every iteration of the loop,
278and thus this might slow down your event loop if you do a lot of loop 319and thus this might slow down your event loop if you do a lot of loop
279iterations and little real work, but is usually not noticeable (on my 320iterations and little real work, but is usually not noticeable (on my
280Linux system for example, C<getpid> is actually a simple 5-insn sequence 321GNU/Linux system for example, C<getpid> is actually a simple 5-insn sequence
281without a syscall and thus I<very> fast, but my Linux system also has 322without a syscall and thus I<very> fast, but my GNU/Linux system also has
282C<pthread_atfork> which is even faster). 323C<pthread_atfork> which is even faster).
283 324
284The big advantage of this flag is that you can forget about fork (and 325The big advantage of this flag is that you can forget about fork (and
285forget about forgetting to tell libev about forking) when you use this 326forget about forgetting to tell libev about forking) when you use this
286flag. 327flag.
291=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend) 332=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend)
292 333
293This is your standard select(2) backend. Not I<completely> standard, as 334This is your standard select(2) backend. Not I<completely> standard, as
294libev tries to roll its own fd_set with no limits on the number of fds, 335libev tries to roll its own fd_set with no limits on the number of fds,
295but if that fails, expect a fairly low limit on the number of fds when 336but if that fails, expect a fairly low limit on the number of fds when
296using this backend. It doesn't scale too well (O(highest_fd)), but its usually 337using this backend. It doesn't scale too well (O(highest_fd)), but its
297the fastest backend for a low number of fds. 338usually the fastest backend for a low number of (low-numbered :) fds.
339
340To get good performance out of this backend you need a high amount of
341parallelity (most of the file descriptors should be busy). If you are
342writing a server, you should C<accept ()> in a loop to accept as many
343connections as possible during one iteration. You might also want to have
344a look at C<ev_set_io_collect_interval ()> to increase the amount of
345readyness notifications you get per iteration.
298 346
299=item C<EVBACKEND_POLL> (value 2, poll backend, available everywhere except on windows) 347=item C<EVBACKEND_POLL> (value 2, poll backend, available everywhere except on windows)
300 348
301And this is your standard poll(2) backend. It's more complicated than 349And this is your standard poll(2) backend. It's more complicated
302select, but handles sparse fds better and has no artificial limit on the 350than select, but handles sparse fds better and has no artificial
303number of fds you can use (except it will slow down considerably with a 351limit on the number of fds you can use (except it will slow down
304lot of inactive fds). It scales similarly to select, i.e. O(total_fds). 352considerably with a lot of inactive fds). It scales similarly to select,
353i.e. O(total_fds). See the entry for C<EVBACKEND_SELECT>, above, for
354performance tips.
305 355
306=item C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL> (value 4, Linux) 356=item C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL> (value 4, Linux)
307 357
308For few fds, this backend is a bit little slower than poll and select, 358For few fds, this backend is a bit little slower than poll and select,
309but it scales phenomenally better. While poll and select usually scale like 359but it scales phenomenally better. While poll and select usually scale
310O(total_fds) where n is the total number of fds (or the highest fd), epoll scales 360like O(total_fds) where n is the total number of fds (or the highest fd),
311either O(1) or O(active_fds). 361epoll scales either O(1) or O(active_fds). The epoll design has a number
362of shortcomings, such as silently dropping events in some hard-to-detect
363cases and rewiring a syscall per fd change, no fork support and bad
364support for dup.
312 365
313While stopping and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration will 366While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration
314result in some caching, there is still a syscall per such incident 367will result in some caching, there is still a syscall per such incident
315(because the fd could point to a different file description now), so its 368(because the fd could point to a different file description now), so its
316best to avoid that. Also, dup()ed file descriptors might not work very 369best to avoid that. Also, C<dup ()>'ed file descriptors might not work
317well if you register events for both fds. 370very well if you register events for both fds.
318 371
319Please note that epoll sometimes generates spurious notifications, so you 372Please note that epoll sometimes generates spurious notifications, so you
320need to use non-blocking I/O or other means to avoid blocking when no data 373need to use non-blocking I/O or other means to avoid blocking when no data
321(or space) is available. 374(or space) is available.
322 375
376Best performance from this backend is achieved by not unregistering all
377watchers for a file descriptor until it has been closed, if possible, i.e.
378keep at least one watcher active per fd at all times.
379
380While nominally embeddeble in other event loops, this feature is broken in
381all kernel versions tested so far.
382
323=item C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE> (value 8, most BSD clones) 383=item C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE> (value 8, most BSD clones)
324 384
325Kqueue deserves special mention, as at the time of this writing, it 385Kqueue deserves special mention, as at the time of this writing, it
326was broken on all BSDs except NetBSD (usually it doesn't work with 386was broken on all BSDs except NetBSD (usually it doesn't work reliably
327anything but sockets and pipes, except on Darwin, where of course its 387with anything but sockets and pipes, except on Darwin, where of course
328completely useless). For this reason its not being "autodetected" 388it's completely useless). For this reason it's not being "autodetected"
329unless you explicitly specify it explicitly in the flags (i.e. using 389unless you explicitly specify it explicitly in the flags (i.e. using
330C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE>). 390C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE>) or libev was compiled on a known-to-be-good (-enough)
391system like NetBSD.
392
393You still can embed kqueue into a normal poll or select backend and use it
394only for sockets (after having made sure that sockets work with kqueue on
395the target platform). See C<ev_embed> watchers for more info.
331 396
332It scales in the same way as the epoll backend, but the interface to the 397It scales in the same way as the epoll backend, but the interface to the
333kernel is more efficient (which says nothing about its actual speed, of 398kernel is more efficient (which says nothing about its actual speed, of
334course). While starting and stopping an I/O watcher does not cause an 399course). While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher does never
335extra syscall as with epoll, it still adds up to four event changes per 400cause an extra syscall as with C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL>, it still adds up to
336incident, so its best to avoid that. 401two event changes per incident, support for C<fork ()> is very bad and it
402drops fds silently in similarly hard-to-detect cases.
403
404This backend usually performs well under most conditions.
405
406While nominally embeddable in other event loops, this doesn't work
407everywhere, so you might need to test for this. And since it is broken
408almost everywhere, you should only use it when you have a lot of sockets
409(for which it usually works), by embedding it into another event loop
410(e.g. C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL>) and using it only for
411sockets.
337 412
338=item C<EVBACKEND_DEVPOLL> (value 16, Solaris 8) 413=item C<EVBACKEND_DEVPOLL> (value 16, Solaris 8)
339 414
340This is not implemented yet (and might never be). 415This is not implemented yet (and might never be, unless you send me an
416implementation). According to reports, C</dev/poll> only supports sockets
417and is not embeddable, which would limit the usefulness of this backend
418immensely.
341 419
342=item C<EVBACKEND_PORT> (value 32, Solaris 10) 420=item C<EVBACKEND_PORT> (value 32, Solaris 10)
343 421
344This uses the Solaris 10 port mechanism. As with everything on Solaris, 422This uses the Solaris 10 event port mechanism. As with everything on Solaris,
345it's really slow, but it still scales very well (O(active_fds)). 423it's really slow, but it still scales very well (O(active_fds)).
346 424
347Please note that solaris ports can result in a lot of spurious 425Please note that solaris event ports can deliver a lot of spurious
348notifications, so you need to use non-blocking I/O or other means to avoid 426notifications, so you need to use non-blocking I/O or other means to avoid
349blocking when no data (or space) is available. 427blocking when no data (or space) is available.
428
429While this backend scales well, it requires one system call per active
430file descriptor per loop iteration. For small and medium numbers of file
431descriptors a "slow" C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL> backend
432might perform better.
433
434On the positive side, ignoring the spurious readyness notifications, this
435backend actually performed to specification in all tests and is fully
436embeddable, which is a rare feat among the OS-specific backends.
350 437
351=item C<EVBACKEND_ALL> 438=item C<EVBACKEND_ALL>
352 439
353Try all backends (even potentially broken ones that wouldn't be tried 440Try all backends (even potentially broken ones that wouldn't be tried
354with C<EVFLAG_AUTO>). Since this is a mask, you can do stuff such as 441with C<EVFLAG_AUTO>). Since this is a mask, you can do stuff such as
355C<EVBACKEND_ALL & ~EVBACKEND_KQUEUE>. 442C<EVBACKEND_ALL & ~EVBACKEND_KQUEUE>.
356 443
444It is definitely not recommended to use this flag.
445
357=back 446=back
358 447
359If one or more of these are ored into the flags value, then only these 448If one or more of these are ored into the flags value, then only these
360backends will be tried (in the reverse order as given here). If none are 449backends will be tried (in the reverse order as listed here). If none are
361specified, most compiled-in backend will be tried, usually in reverse 450specified, all backends in C<ev_recommended_backends ()> will be tried.
362order of their flag values :)
363 451
364The most typical usage is like this: 452The most typical usage is like this:
365 453
366 if (!ev_default_loop (0)) 454 if (!ev_default_loop (0))
367 fatal ("could not initialise libev, bad $LIBEV_FLAGS in environment?"); 455 fatal ("could not initialise libev, bad $LIBEV_FLAGS in environment?");
381 469
382Similar to C<ev_default_loop>, but always creates a new event loop that is 470Similar to C<ev_default_loop>, but always creates a new event loop that is
383always distinct from the default loop. Unlike the default loop, it cannot 471always distinct from the default loop. Unlike the default loop, it cannot
384handle signal and child watchers, and attempts to do so will be greeted by 472handle signal and child watchers, and attempts to do so will be greeted by
385undefined behaviour (or a failed assertion if assertions are enabled). 473undefined behaviour (or a failed assertion if assertions are enabled).
474
475Note that this function I<is> thread-safe, and the recommended way to use
476libev with threads is indeed to create one loop per thread, and using the
477default loop in the "main" or "initial" thread.
386 478
387Example: Try to create a event loop that uses epoll and nothing else. 479Example: Try to create a event loop that uses epoll and nothing else.
388 480
389 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV); 481 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV);
390 if (!epoller) 482 if (!epoller)
395Destroys the default loop again (frees all memory and kernel state 487Destroys the default loop again (frees all memory and kernel state
396etc.). None of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal 488etc.). None of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal
397sense, so e.g. C<ev_is_active> might still return true. It is your 489sense, so e.g. C<ev_is_active> might still return true. It is your
398responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yoursef I<before> 490responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yoursef I<before>
399calling this function, or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually 491calling this function, or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually
400the easiest thing, youc na just ignore the watchers and/or C<free ()> them 492the easiest thing, you can just ignore the watchers and/or C<free ()> them
401for example). 493for example).
494
495Note that certain global state, such as signal state, will not be freed by
496this function, and related watchers (such as signal and child watchers)
497would need to be stopped manually.
498
499In general it is not advisable to call this function except in the
500rare occasion where you really need to free e.g. the signal handling
501pipe fds. If you need dynamically allocated loops it is better to use
502C<ev_loop_new> and C<ev_loop_destroy>).
402 503
403=item ev_loop_destroy (loop) 504=item ev_loop_destroy (loop)
404 505
405Like C<ev_default_destroy>, but destroys an event loop created by an 506Like C<ev_default_destroy>, but destroys an event loop created by an
406earlier call to C<ev_loop_new>. 507earlier call to C<ev_loop_new>.
407 508
408=item ev_default_fork () 509=item ev_default_fork ()
409 510
511This function sets a flag that causes subsequent C<ev_loop> iterations
410This function reinitialises the kernel state for backends that have 512to reinitialise the kernel state for backends that have one. Despite the
411one. Despite the name, you can call it anytime, but it makes most sense 513name, you can call it anytime, but it makes most sense after forking, in
412after forking, in either the parent or child process (or both, but that 514the child process (or both child and parent, but that again makes little
413again makes little sense). 515sense). You I<must> call it in the child before using any of the libev
516functions, and it will only take effect at the next C<ev_loop> iteration.
414 517
415You I<must> call this function in the child process after forking if and 518On the other hand, you only need to call this function in the child
416only if you want to use the event library in both processes. If you just 519process if and only if you want to use the event library in the child. If
417fork+exec, you don't have to call it. 520you just fork+exec, you don't have to call it at all.
418 521
419The function itself is quite fast and it's usually not a problem to call 522The function itself is quite fast and it's usually not a problem to call
420it just in case after a fork. To make this easy, the function will fit in 523it just in case after a fork. To make this easy, the function will fit in
421quite nicely into a call to C<pthread_atfork>: 524quite nicely into a call to C<pthread_atfork>:
422 525
423 pthread_atfork (0, 0, ev_default_fork); 526 pthread_atfork (0, 0, ev_default_fork);
424 527
425At the moment, C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and C<EVBACKEND_POLL> are safe to use
426without calling this function, so if you force one of those backends you
427do not need to care.
428
429=item ev_loop_fork (loop) 528=item ev_loop_fork (loop)
430 529
431Like C<ev_default_fork>, but acts on an event loop created by 530Like C<ev_default_fork>, but acts on an event loop created by
432C<ev_loop_new>. Yes, you have to call this on every allocated event loop 531C<ev_loop_new>. Yes, you have to call this on every allocated event loop
433after fork, and how you do this is entirely your own problem. 532after fork, and how you do this is entirely your own problem.
533
534=item int ev_is_default_loop (loop)
535
536Returns true when the given loop actually is the default loop, false otherwise.
537
538=item unsigned int ev_loop_count (loop)
539
540Returns the count of loop iterations for the loop, which is identical to
541the number of times libev did poll for new events. It starts at C<0> and
542happily wraps around with enough iterations.
543
544This value can sometimes be useful as a generation counter of sorts (it
545"ticks" the number of loop iterations), as it roughly corresponds with
546C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> calls.
434 547
435=item unsigned int ev_backend (loop) 548=item unsigned int ev_backend (loop)
436 549
437Returns one of the C<EVBACKEND_*> flags indicating the event backend in 550Returns one of the C<EVBACKEND_*> flags indicating the event backend in
438use. 551use.
441 554
442Returns the current "event loop time", which is the time the event loop 555Returns the current "event loop time", which is the time the event loop
443received events and started processing them. This timestamp does not 556received events and started processing them. This timestamp does not
444change as long as callbacks are being processed, and this is also the base 557change as long as callbacks are being processed, and this is also the base
445time used for relative timers. You can treat it as the timestamp of the 558time used for relative timers. You can treat it as the timestamp of the
446event occuring (or more correctly, libev finding out about it). 559event occurring (or more correctly, libev finding out about it).
447 560
448=item ev_loop (loop, int flags) 561=item ev_loop (loop, int flags)
449 562
450Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called 563Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called
451after you initialised all your watchers and you want to start handling 564after you initialised all your watchers and you want to start handling
472libev watchers. However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is 585libev watchers. However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is
473usually a better approach for this kind of thing. 586usually a better approach for this kind of thing.
474 587
475Here are the gory details of what C<ev_loop> does: 588Here are the gory details of what C<ev_loop> does:
476 589
477 * If there are no active watchers (reference count is zero), return. 590 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers.
478 - Queue prepare watchers and then call all outstanding watchers. 591 * If EVFLAG_FORKCHECK was used, check for a fork.
592 - If a fork was detected, queue and call all fork watchers.
593 - Queue and call all prepare watchers.
479 - If we have been forked, recreate the kernel state. 594 - If we have been forked, recreate the kernel state.
480 - Update the kernel state with all outstanding changes. 595 - Update the kernel state with all outstanding changes.
481 - Update the "event loop time". 596 - Update the "event loop time".
482 - Calculate for how long to block. 597 - Calculate for how long to sleep or block, if at all
598 (active idle watchers, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK or not having
599 any active watchers at all will result in not sleeping).
600 - Sleep if the I/O and timer collect interval say so.
483 - Block the process, waiting for any events. 601 - Block the process, waiting for any events.
484 - Queue all outstanding I/O (fd) events. 602 - Queue all outstanding I/O (fd) events.
485 - Update the "event loop time" and do time jump handling. 603 - Update the "event loop time" and do time jump handling.
486 - Queue all outstanding timers. 604 - Queue all outstanding timers.
487 - Queue all outstanding periodics. 605 - Queue all outstanding periodics.
488 - If no events are pending now, queue all idle watchers. 606 - If no events are pending now, queue all idle watchers.
489 - Queue all check watchers. 607 - Queue all check watchers.
490 - Call all queued watchers in reverse order (i.e. check watchers first). 608 - Call all queued watchers in reverse order (i.e. check watchers first).
491 Signals and child watchers are implemented as I/O watchers, and will 609 Signals and child watchers are implemented as I/O watchers, and will
492 be handled here by queueing them when their watcher gets executed. 610 be handled here by queueing them when their watcher gets executed.
493 - If ev_unloop has been called or EVLOOP_ONESHOT or EVLOOP_NONBLOCK 611 - If ev_unloop has been called, or EVLOOP_ONESHOT or EVLOOP_NONBLOCK
494 were used, return, otherwise continue with step *. 612 were used, or there are no active watchers, return, otherwise
613 continue with step *.
495 614
496Example: Queue some jobs and then loop until no events are outsanding 615Example: Queue some jobs and then loop until no events are outstanding
497anymore. 616anymore.
498 617
499 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long 618 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long
500 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..) 619 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..)
501 ev_loop (my_loop, 0); 620 ev_loop (my_loop, 0);
505 624
506Can be used to make a call to C<ev_loop> return early (but only after it 625Can be used to make a call to C<ev_loop> return early (but only after it
507has processed all outstanding events). The C<how> argument must be either 626has processed all outstanding events). The C<how> argument must be either
508C<EVUNLOOP_ONE>, which will make the innermost C<ev_loop> call return, or 627C<EVUNLOOP_ONE>, which will make the innermost C<ev_loop> call return, or
509C<EVUNLOOP_ALL>, which will make all nested C<ev_loop> calls return. 628C<EVUNLOOP_ALL>, which will make all nested C<ev_loop> calls return.
629
630This "unloop state" will be cleared when entering C<ev_loop> again.
510 631
511=item ev_ref (loop) 632=item ev_ref (loop)
512 633
513=item ev_unref (loop) 634=item ev_unref (loop)
514 635
519returning, ev_unref() after starting, and ev_ref() before stopping it. For 640returning, ev_unref() after starting, and ev_ref() before stopping it. For
520example, libev itself uses this for its internal signal pipe: It is not 641example, libev itself uses this for its internal signal pipe: It is not
521visible to the libev user and should not keep C<ev_loop> from exiting if 642visible to the libev user and should not keep C<ev_loop> from exiting if
522no event watchers registered by it are active. It is also an excellent 643no event watchers registered by it are active. It is also an excellent
523way to do this for generic recurring timers or from within third-party 644way to do this for generic recurring timers or from within third-party
524libraries. Just remember to I<unref after start> and I<ref before stop>. 645libraries. Just remember to I<unref after start> and I<ref before stop>
646(but only if the watcher wasn't active before, or was active before,
647respectively).
525 648
526Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_loop> 649Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_loop>
527running when nothing else is active. 650running when nothing else is active.
528 651
529 struct ev_signal exitsig; 652 struct ev_signal exitsig;
533 656
534Example: For some weird reason, unregister the above signal handler again. 657Example: For some weird reason, unregister the above signal handler again.
535 658
536 ev_ref (loop); 659 ev_ref (loop);
537 ev_signal_stop (loop, &exitsig); 660 ev_signal_stop (loop, &exitsig);
661
662=item ev_set_io_collect_interval (loop, ev_tstamp interval)
663
664=item ev_set_timeout_collect_interval (loop, ev_tstamp interval)
665
666These advanced functions influence the time that libev will spend waiting
667for events. Both are by default C<0>, meaning that libev will try to
668invoke timer/periodic callbacks and I/O callbacks with minimum latency.
669
670Setting these to a higher value (the C<interval> I<must> be >= C<0>)
671allows libev to delay invocation of I/O and timer/periodic callbacks to
672increase efficiency of loop iterations.
673
674The background is that sometimes your program runs just fast enough to
675handle one (or very few) event(s) per loop iteration. While this makes
676the program responsive, it also wastes a lot of CPU time to poll for new
677events, especially with backends like C<select ()> which have a high
678overhead for the actual polling but can deliver many events at once.
679
680By setting a higher I<io collect interval> you allow libev to spend more
681time collecting I/O events, so you can handle more events per iteration,
682at the cost of increasing latency. Timeouts (both C<ev_periodic> and
683C<ev_timer>) will be not affected. Setting this to a non-null value will
684introduce an additional C<ev_sleep ()> call into most loop iterations.
685
686Likewise, by setting a higher I<timeout collect interval> you allow libev
687to spend more time collecting timeouts, at the expense of increased
688latency (the watcher callback will be called later). C<ev_io> watchers
689will not be affected. Setting this to a non-null value will not introduce
690any overhead in libev.
691
692Many (busy) programs can usually benefit by setting the io collect
693interval to a value near C<0.1> or so, which is often enough for
694interactive servers (of course not for games), likewise for timeouts. It
695usually doesn't make much sense to set it to a lower value than C<0.01>,
696as this approsaches the timing granularity of most systems.
538 697
539=back 698=back
540 699
541 700
542=head1 ANATOMY OF A WATCHER 701=head1 ANATOMY OF A WATCHER
642=item C<EV_FORK> 801=item C<EV_FORK>
643 802
644The event loop has been resumed in the child process after fork (see 803The event loop has been resumed in the child process after fork (see
645C<ev_fork>). 804C<ev_fork>).
646 805
806=item C<EV_ASYNC>
807
808The given async watcher has been asynchronously notified (see C<ev_async>).
809
647=item C<EV_ERROR> 810=item C<EV_ERROR>
648 811
649An unspecified error has occured, the watcher has been stopped. This might 812An unspecified error has occured, the watcher has been stopped. This might
650happen because the watcher could not be properly started because libev 813happen because the watcher could not be properly started because libev
651ran out of memory, a file descriptor was found to be closed or any other 814ran out of memory, a file descriptor was found to be closed or any other
722=item bool ev_is_pending (ev_TYPE *watcher) 885=item bool ev_is_pending (ev_TYPE *watcher)
723 886
724Returns a true value iff the watcher is pending, (i.e. it has outstanding 887Returns a true value iff the watcher is pending, (i.e. it has outstanding
725events but its callback has not yet been invoked). As long as a watcher 888events but its callback has not yet been invoked). As long as a watcher
726is pending (but not active) you must not call an init function on it (but 889is pending (but not active) you must not call an init function on it (but
727C<ev_TYPE_set> is safe) and you must make sure the watcher is available to 890C<ev_TYPE_set> is safe), you must not change its priority, and you must
728libev (e.g. you cnanot C<free ()> it). 891make sure the watcher is available to libev (e.g. you cannot C<free ()>
892it).
729 893
730=item callback ev_cb (ev_TYPE *watcher) 894=item callback ev_cb (ev_TYPE *watcher)
731 895
732Returns the callback currently set on the watcher. 896Returns the callback currently set on the watcher.
733 897
734=item ev_cb_set (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback) 898=item ev_cb_set (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback)
735 899
736Change the callback. You can change the callback at virtually any time 900Change the callback. You can change the callback at virtually any time
737(modulo threads). 901(modulo threads).
902
903=item ev_set_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher, priority)
904
905=item int ev_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher)
906
907Set and query the priority of the watcher. The priority is a small
908integer between C<EV_MAXPRI> (default: C<2>) and C<EV_MINPRI>
909(default: C<-2>). Pending watchers with higher priority will be invoked
910before watchers with lower priority, but priority will not keep watchers
911from being executed (except for C<ev_idle> watchers).
912
913This means that priorities are I<only> used for ordering callback
914invocation after new events have been received. This is useful, for
915example, to reduce latency after idling, or more often, to bind two
916watchers on the same event and make sure one is called first.
917
918If you need to suppress invocation when higher priority events are pending
919you need to look at C<ev_idle> watchers, which provide this functionality.
920
921You I<must not> change the priority of a watcher as long as it is active or
922pending.
923
924The default priority used by watchers when no priority has been set is
925always C<0>, which is supposed to not be too high and not be too low :).
926
927Setting a priority outside the range of C<EV_MINPRI> to C<EV_MAXPRI> is
928fine, as long as you do not mind that the priority value you query might
929or might not have been adjusted to be within valid range.
930
931=item ev_invoke (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher, int revents)
932
933Invoke the C<watcher> with the given C<loop> and C<revents>. Neither
934C<loop> nor C<revents> need to be valid as long as the watcher callback
935can deal with that fact.
936
937=item int ev_clear_pending (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher)
938
939If the watcher is pending, this function returns clears its pending status
940and returns its C<revents> bitset (as if its callback was invoked). If the
941watcher isn't pending it does nothing and returns C<0>.
738 942
739=back 943=back
740 944
741 945
742=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER 946=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER
827In general you can register as many read and/or write event watchers per 1031In general you can register as many read and/or write event watchers per
828fd as you want (as long as you don't confuse yourself). Setting all file 1032fd as you want (as long as you don't confuse yourself). Setting all file
829descriptors to non-blocking mode is also usually a good idea (but not 1033descriptors to non-blocking mode is also usually a good idea (but not
830required if you know what you are doing). 1034required if you know what you are doing).
831 1035
832You have to be careful with dup'ed file descriptors, though. Some backends
833(the linux epoll backend is a notable example) cannot handle dup'ed file
834descriptors correctly if you register interest in two or more fds pointing
835to the same underlying file/socket/etc. description (that is, they share
836the same underlying "file open").
837
838If you must do this, then force the use of a known-to-be-good backend 1036If you must do this, then force the use of a known-to-be-good backend
839(at the time of this writing, this includes only C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and 1037(at the time of this writing, this includes only C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and
840C<EVBACKEND_POLL>). 1038C<EVBACKEND_POLL>).
841 1039
842Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to 1040Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to
848it is best to always use non-blocking I/O: An extra C<read>(2) returning 1046it is best to always use non-blocking I/O: An extra C<read>(2) returning
849C<EAGAIN> is far preferable to a program hanging until some data arrives. 1047C<EAGAIN> is far preferable to a program hanging until some data arrives.
850 1048
851If you cannot run the fd in non-blocking mode (for example you should not 1049If you cannot run the fd in non-blocking mode (for example you should not
852play around with an Xlib connection), then you have to seperately re-test 1050play around with an Xlib connection), then you have to seperately re-test
853wether a file descriptor is really ready with a known-to-be good interface 1051whether a file descriptor is really ready with a known-to-be good interface
854such as poll (fortunately in our Xlib example, Xlib already does this on 1052such as poll (fortunately in our Xlib example, Xlib already does this on
855its own, so its quite safe to use). 1053its own, so its quite safe to use).
1054
1055=head3 The special problem of disappearing file descriptors
1056
1057Some backends (e.g. kqueue, epoll) need to be told about closing a file
1058descriptor (either by calling C<close> explicitly or by any other means,
1059such as C<dup>). The reason is that you register interest in some file
1060descriptor, but when it goes away, the operating system will silently drop
1061this interest. If another file descriptor with the same number then is
1062registered with libev, there is no efficient way to see that this is, in
1063fact, a different file descriptor.
1064
1065To avoid having to explicitly tell libev about such cases, libev follows
1066the following policy: Each time C<ev_io_set> is being called, libev
1067will assume that this is potentially a new file descriptor, otherwise
1068it is assumed that the file descriptor stays the same. That means that
1069you I<have> to call C<ev_io_set> (or C<ev_io_init>) when you change the
1070descriptor even if the file descriptor number itself did not change.
1071
1072This is how one would do it normally anyway, the important point is that
1073the libev application should not optimise around libev but should leave
1074optimisations to libev.
1075
1076=head3 The special problem of dup'ed file descriptors
1077
1078Some backends (e.g. epoll), cannot register events for file descriptors,
1079but only events for the underlying file descriptions. That means when you
1080have C<dup ()>'ed file descriptors or weirder constellations, and register
1081events for them, only one file descriptor might actually receive events.
1082
1083There is no workaround possible except not registering events
1084for potentially C<dup ()>'ed file descriptors, or to resort to
1085C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
1086
1087=head3 The special problem of fork
1088
1089Some backends (epoll, kqueue) do not support C<fork ()> at all or exhibit
1090useless behaviour. Libev fully supports fork, but needs to be told about
1091it in the child.
1092
1093To support fork in your programs, you either have to call
1094C<ev_default_fork ()> or C<ev_loop_fork ()> after a fork in the child,
1095enable C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>, or resort to C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or
1096C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
1097
1098=head3 The special problem of SIGPIPE
1099
1100While not really specific to libev, it is easy to forget about SIGPIPE:
1101when reading from a pipe whose other end has been closed, your program
1102gets send a SIGPIPE, which, by default, aborts your program. For most
1103programs this is sensible behaviour, for daemons, this is usually
1104undesirable.
1105
1106So when you encounter spurious, unexplained daemon exits, make sure you
1107ignore SIGPIPE (and maybe make sure you log the exit status of your daemon
1108somewhere, as that would have given you a big clue).
1109
1110
1111=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions
856 1112
857=over 4 1113=over 4
858 1114
859=item ev_io_init (ev_io *, callback, int fd, int events) 1115=item ev_io_init (ev_io *, callback, int fd, int events)
860 1116
871=item int events [read-only] 1127=item int events [read-only]
872 1128
873The events being watched. 1129The events being watched.
874 1130
875=back 1131=back
1132
1133=head3 Examples
876 1134
877Example: Call C<stdin_readable_cb> when STDIN_FILENO has become, well 1135Example: Call C<stdin_readable_cb> when STDIN_FILENO has become, well
878readable, but only once. Since it is likely line-buffered, you could 1136readable, but only once. Since it is likely line-buffered, you could
879attempt to read a whole line in the callback. 1137attempt to read a whole line in the callback.
880 1138
914 1172
915The callback is guarenteed to be invoked only when its timeout has passed, 1173The callback is guarenteed to be invoked only when its timeout has passed,
916but if multiple timers become ready during the same loop iteration then 1174but if multiple timers become ready during the same loop iteration then
917order of execution is undefined. 1175order of execution is undefined.
918 1176
1177=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1178
919=over 4 1179=over 4
920 1180
921=item ev_timer_init (ev_timer *, callback, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat) 1181=item ev_timer_init (ev_timer *, callback, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat)
922 1182
923=item ev_timer_set (ev_timer *, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat) 1183=item ev_timer_set (ev_timer *, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat)
931configure a timer to trigger every 10 seconds, then it will trigger at 1191configure a timer to trigger every 10 seconds, then it will trigger at
932exactly 10 second intervals. If, however, your program cannot keep up with 1192exactly 10 second intervals. If, however, your program cannot keep up with
933the timer (because it takes longer than those 10 seconds to do stuff) the 1193the timer (because it takes longer than those 10 seconds to do stuff) the
934timer will not fire more than once per event loop iteration. 1194timer will not fire more than once per event loop iteration.
935 1195
936=item ev_timer_again (loop) 1196=item ev_timer_again (loop, ev_timer *)
937 1197
938This will act as if the timer timed out and restart it again if it is 1198This will act as if the timer timed out and restart it again if it is
939repeating. The exact semantics are: 1199repeating. The exact semantics are:
940 1200
941If the timer is pending, its pending status is cleared. 1201If the timer is pending, its pending status is cleared.
976or C<ev_timer_again> is called and determines the next timeout (if any), 1236or C<ev_timer_again> is called and determines the next timeout (if any),
977which is also when any modifications are taken into account. 1237which is also when any modifications are taken into account.
978 1238
979=back 1239=back
980 1240
1241=head3 Examples
1242
981Example: Create a timer that fires after 60 seconds. 1243Example: Create a timer that fires after 60 seconds.
982 1244
983 static void 1245 static void
984 one_minute_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 1246 one_minute_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
985 { 1247 {
1018but on wallclock time (absolute time). You can tell a periodic watcher 1280but on wallclock time (absolute time). You can tell a periodic watcher
1019to trigger "at" some specific point in time. For example, if you tell a 1281to trigger "at" some specific point in time. For example, if you tell a
1020periodic watcher to trigger in 10 seconds (by specifiying e.g. C<ev_now () 1282periodic watcher to trigger in 10 seconds (by specifiying e.g. C<ev_now ()
1021+ 10.>) and then reset your system clock to the last year, then it will 1283+ 10.>) and then reset your system clock to the last year, then it will
1022take a year to trigger the event (unlike an C<ev_timer>, which would trigger 1284take a year to trigger the event (unlike an C<ev_timer>, which would trigger
1023roughly 10 seconds later and of course not if you reset your system time 1285roughly 10 seconds later).
1024again).
1025 1286
1026They can also be used to implement vastly more complex timers, such as 1287They can also be used to implement vastly more complex timers, such as
1027triggering an event on eahc midnight, local time. 1288triggering an event on each midnight, local time or other, complicated,
1289rules.
1028 1290
1029As with timers, the callback is guarenteed to be invoked only when the 1291As with timers, the callback is guarenteed to be invoked only when the
1030time (C<at>) has been passed, but if multiple periodic timers become ready 1292time (C<at>) has been passed, but if multiple periodic timers become ready
1031during the same loop iteration then order of execution is undefined. 1293during the same loop iteration then order of execution is undefined.
1032 1294
1295=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1296
1033=over 4 1297=over 4
1034 1298
1035=item ev_periodic_init (ev_periodic *, callback, ev_tstamp at, ev_tstamp interval, reschedule_cb) 1299=item ev_periodic_init (ev_periodic *, callback, ev_tstamp at, ev_tstamp interval, reschedule_cb)
1036 1300
1037=item ev_periodic_set (ev_periodic *, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat, reschedule_cb) 1301=item ev_periodic_set (ev_periodic *, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat, reschedule_cb)
1039Lots of arguments, lets sort it out... There are basically three modes of 1303Lots of arguments, lets sort it out... There are basically three modes of
1040operation, and we will explain them from simplest to complex: 1304operation, and we will explain them from simplest to complex:
1041 1305
1042=over 4 1306=over 4
1043 1307
1044=item * absolute timer (interval = reschedule_cb = 0) 1308=item * absolute timer (at = time, interval = reschedule_cb = 0)
1045 1309
1046In this configuration the watcher triggers an event at the wallclock time 1310In this configuration the watcher triggers an event at the wallclock time
1047C<at> and doesn't repeat. It will not adjust when a time jump occurs, 1311C<at> and doesn't repeat. It will not adjust when a time jump occurs,
1048that is, if it is to be run at January 1st 2011 then it will run when the 1312that is, if it is to be run at January 1st 2011 then it will run when the
1049system time reaches or surpasses this time. 1313system time reaches or surpasses this time.
1050 1314
1051=item * non-repeating interval timer (interval > 0, reschedule_cb = 0) 1315=item * repeating interval timer (at = offset, interval > 0, reschedule_cb = 0)
1052 1316
1053In this mode the watcher will always be scheduled to time out at the next 1317In this mode the watcher will always be scheduled to time out at the next
1054C<at + N * interval> time (for some integer N) and then repeat, regardless 1318C<at + N * interval> time (for some integer N, which can also be negative)
1055of any time jumps. 1319and then repeat, regardless of any time jumps.
1056 1320
1057This can be used to create timers that do not drift with respect to system 1321This can be used to create timers that do not drift with respect to system
1058time: 1322time:
1059 1323
1060 ev_periodic_set (&periodic, 0., 3600., 0); 1324 ev_periodic_set (&periodic, 0., 3600., 0);
1066 1330
1067Another way to think about it (for the mathematically inclined) is that 1331Another way to think about it (for the mathematically inclined) is that
1068C<ev_periodic> will try to run the callback in this mode at the next possible 1332C<ev_periodic> will try to run the callback in this mode at the next possible
1069time where C<time = at (mod interval)>, regardless of any time jumps. 1333time where C<time = at (mod interval)>, regardless of any time jumps.
1070 1334
1335For numerical stability it is preferable that the C<at> value is near
1336C<ev_now ()> (the current time), but there is no range requirement for
1337this value.
1338
1071=item * manual reschedule mode (reschedule_cb = callback) 1339=item * manual reschedule mode (at and interval ignored, reschedule_cb = callback)
1072 1340
1073In this mode the values for C<interval> and C<at> are both being 1341In this mode the values for C<interval> and C<at> are both being
1074ignored. Instead, each time the periodic watcher gets scheduled, the 1342ignored. Instead, each time the periodic watcher gets scheduled, the
1075reschedule callback will be called with the watcher as first, and the 1343reschedule callback will be called with the watcher as first, and the
1076current time as second argument. 1344current time as second argument.
1077 1345
1078NOTE: I<This callback MUST NOT stop or destroy any periodic watcher, 1346NOTE: I<This callback MUST NOT stop or destroy any periodic watcher,
1079ever, or make any event loop modifications>. If you need to stop it, 1347ever, or make any event loop modifications>. If you need to stop it,
1080return C<now + 1e30> (or so, fudge fudge) and stop it afterwards (e.g. by 1348return C<now + 1e30> (or so, fudge fudge) and stop it afterwards (e.g. by
1081starting a prepare watcher). 1349starting an C<ev_prepare> watcher, which is legal).
1082 1350
1083Its prototype is C<ev_tstamp (*reschedule_cb)(struct ev_periodic *w, 1351Its prototype is C<ev_tstamp (*reschedule_cb)(struct ev_periodic *w,
1084ev_tstamp now)>, e.g.: 1352ev_tstamp now)>, e.g.:
1085 1353
1086 static ev_tstamp my_rescheduler (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now) 1354 static ev_tstamp my_rescheduler (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now)
1109Simply stops and restarts the periodic watcher again. This is only useful 1377Simply stops and restarts the periodic watcher again. This is only useful
1110when you changed some parameters or the reschedule callback would return 1378when you changed some parameters or the reschedule callback would return
1111a different time than the last time it was called (e.g. in a crond like 1379a different time than the last time it was called (e.g. in a crond like
1112program when the crontabs have changed). 1380program when the crontabs have changed).
1113 1381
1382=item ev_tstamp offset [read-write]
1383
1384When repeating, this contains the offset value, otherwise this is the
1385absolute point in time (the C<at> value passed to C<ev_periodic_set>).
1386
1387Can be modified any time, but changes only take effect when the periodic
1388timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being called.
1389
1114=item ev_tstamp interval [read-write] 1390=item ev_tstamp interval [read-write]
1115 1391
1116The current interval value. Can be modified any time, but changes only 1392The current interval value. Can be modified any time, but changes only
1117take effect when the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being 1393take effect when the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being
1118called. 1394called.
1121 1397
1122The current reschedule callback, or C<0>, if this functionality is 1398The current reschedule callback, or C<0>, if this functionality is
1123switched off. Can be changed any time, but changes only take effect when 1399switched off. Can be changed any time, but changes only take effect when
1124the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being called. 1400the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being called.
1125 1401
1402=item ev_tstamp at [read-only]
1403
1404When active, contains the absolute time that the watcher is supposed to
1405trigger next.
1406
1126=back 1407=back
1408
1409=head3 Examples
1127 1410
1128Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the 1411Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the
1129system clock is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have 1412system clock is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have
1130potentially a lot of jittering, but good long-term stability. 1413potentially a lot of jittering, but good long-term stability.
1131 1414
1171with the kernel (thus it coexists with your own signal handlers as long 1454with the kernel (thus it coexists with your own signal handlers as long
1172as you don't register any with libev). Similarly, when the last signal 1455as you don't register any with libev). Similarly, when the last signal
1173watcher for a signal is stopped libev will reset the signal handler to 1456watcher for a signal is stopped libev will reset the signal handler to
1174SIG_DFL (regardless of what it was set to before). 1457SIG_DFL (regardless of what it was set to before).
1175 1458
1459If possible and supported, libev will install its handlers with
1460C<SA_RESTART> behaviour enabled, so syscalls should not be unduly
1461interrupted. If you have a problem with syscalls getting interrupted by
1462signals you can block all signals in an C<ev_check> watcher and unblock
1463them in an C<ev_prepare> watcher.
1464
1465=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1466
1176=over 4 1467=over 4
1177 1468
1178=item ev_signal_init (ev_signal *, callback, int signum) 1469=item ev_signal_init (ev_signal *, callback, int signum)
1179 1470
1180=item ev_signal_set (ev_signal *, int signum) 1471=item ev_signal_set (ev_signal *, int signum)
1186 1477
1187The signal the watcher watches out for. 1478The signal the watcher watches out for.
1188 1479
1189=back 1480=back
1190 1481
1482=head3 Examples
1483
1484Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT and SIGTERM.
1485
1486 static void
1487 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_signal *w, int revents)
1488 {
1489 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL);
1490 }
1491
1492 struct ev_signal signal_watcher;
1493 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT);
1494 ev_signal_start (loop, &sigint_cb);
1495
1191 1496
1192=head2 C<ev_child> - watch out for process status changes 1497=head2 C<ev_child> - watch out for process status changes
1193 1498
1194Child watchers trigger when your process receives a SIGCHLD in response to 1499Child watchers trigger when your process receives a SIGCHLD in response to
1195some child status changes (most typically when a child of yours dies). 1500some child status changes (most typically when a child of yours dies). It
1501is permissible to install a child watcher I<after> the child has been
1502forked (which implies it might have already exited), as long as the event
1503loop isn't entered (or is continued from a watcher).
1504
1505Only the default event loop is capable of handling signals, and therefore
1506you can only rgeister child watchers in the default event loop.
1507
1508=head3 Process Interaction
1509
1510Libev grabs C<SIGCHLD> as soon as the default event loop is
1511initialised. This is necessary to guarantee proper behaviour even if
1512the first child watcher is started after the child exits. The occurance
1513of C<SIGCHLD> is recorded asynchronously, but child reaping is done
1514synchronously as part of the event loop processing. Libev always reaps all
1515children, even ones not watched.
1516
1517=head3 Overriding the Built-In Processing
1518
1519Libev offers no special support for overriding the built-in child
1520processing, but if your application collides with libev's default child
1521handler, you can override it easily by installing your own handler for
1522C<SIGCHLD> after initialising the default loop, and making sure the
1523default loop never gets destroyed. You are encouraged, however, to use an
1524event-based approach to child reaping and thus use libev's support for
1525that, so other libev users can use C<ev_child> watchers freely.
1526
1527=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1196 1528
1197=over 4 1529=over 4
1198 1530
1199=item ev_child_init (ev_child *, callback, int pid) 1531=item ev_child_init (ev_child *, callback, int pid, int trace)
1200 1532
1201=item ev_child_set (ev_child *, int pid) 1533=item ev_child_set (ev_child *, int pid, int trace)
1202 1534
1203Configures the watcher to wait for status changes of process C<pid> (or 1535Configures the watcher to wait for status changes of process C<pid> (or
1204I<any> process if C<pid> is specified as C<0>). The callback can look 1536I<any> process if C<pid> is specified as C<0>). The callback can look
1205at the C<rstatus> member of the C<ev_child> watcher structure to see 1537at the C<rstatus> member of the C<ev_child> watcher structure to see
1206the status word (use the macros from C<sys/wait.h> and see your systems 1538the status word (use the macros from C<sys/wait.h> and see your systems
1207C<waitpid> documentation). The C<rpid> member contains the pid of the 1539C<waitpid> documentation). The C<rpid> member contains the pid of the
1208process causing the status change. 1540process causing the status change. C<trace> must be either C<0> (only
1541activate the watcher when the process terminates) or C<1> (additionally
1542activate the watcher when the process is stopped or continued).
1209 1543
1210=item int pid [read-only] 1544=item int pid [read-only]
1211 1545
1212The process id this watcher watches out for, or C<0>, meaning any process id. 1546The process id this watcher watches out for, or C<0>, meaning any process id.
1213 1547
1220The process exit/trace status caused by C<rpid> (see your systems 1554The process exit/trace status caused by C<rpid> (see your systems
1221C<waitpid> and C<sys/wait.h> documentation for details). 1555C<waitpid> and C<sys/wait.h> documentation for details).
1222 1556
1223=back 1557=back
1224 1558
1225Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT and SIGTERM. 1559=head3 Examples
1560
1561Example: C<fork()> a new process and install a child handler to wait for
1562its completion.
1563
1564 ev_child cw;
1226 1565
1227 static void 1566 static void
1228 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_signal *w, int revents) 1567 child_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_child *w, int revents)
1229 { 1568 {
1230 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 1569 ev_child_stop (EV_A_ w);
1570 printf ("process %d exited with status %x\n", w->rpid, w->rstatus);
1231 } 1571 }
1232 1572
1233 struct ev_signal signal_watcher; 1573 pid_t pid = fork ();
1234 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT); 1574
1235 ev_signal_start (loop, &sigint_cb); 1575 if (pid < 0)
1576 // error
1577 else if (pid == 0)
1578 {
1579 // the forked child executes here
1580 exit (1);
1581 }
1582 else
1583 {
1584 ev_child_init (&cw, child_cb, pid, 0);
1585 ev_child_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &cw);
1586 }
1236 1587
1237 1588
1238=head2 C<ev_stat> - did the file attributes just change? 1589=head2 C<ev_stat> - did the file attributes just change?
1239 1590
1240This watches a filesystem path for attribute changes. That is, it calls 1591This watches a filesystem path for attribute changes. That is, it calls
1269semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers, which means that libev sometimes needs 1620semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers, which means that libev sometimes needs
1270to fall back to regular polling again even with inotify, but changes are 1621to fall back to regular polling again even with inotify, but changes are
1271usually detected immediately, and if the file exists there will be no 1622usually detected immediately, and if the file exists there will be no
1272polling. 1623polling.
1273 1624
1625=head3 ABI Issues (Largefile Support)
1626
1627Libev by default (unless the user overrides this) uses the default
1628compilation environment, which means that on systems with optionally
1629disabled large file support, you get the 32 bit version of the stat
1630structure. When using the library from programs that change the ABI to
1631use 64 bit file offsets the programs will fail. In that case you have to
1632compile libev with the same flags to get binary compatibility. This is
1633obviously the case with any flags that change the ABI, but the problem is
1634most noticably with ev_stat and largefile support.
1635
1636=head3 Inotify
1637
1638When C<inotify (7)> support has been compiled into libev (generally only
1639available on Linux) and present at runtime, it will be used to speed up
1640change detection where possible. The inotify descriptor will be created lazily
1641when the first C<ev_stat> watcher is being started.
1642
1643Inotify presense does not change the semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers
1644except that changes might be detected earlier, and in some cases, to avoid
1645making regular C<stat> calls. Even in the presense of inotify support
1646there are many cases where libev has to resort to regular C<stat> polling.
1647
1648(There is no support for kqueue, as apparently it cannot be used to
1649implement this functionality, due to the requirement of having a file
1650descriptor open on the object at all times).
1651
1652=head3 The special problem of stat time resolution
1653
1654The C<stat ()> syscall only supports full-second resolution portably, and
1655even on systems where the resolution is higher, many filesystems still
1656only support whole seconds.
1657
1658That means that, if the time is the only thing that changes, you might
1659miss updates: on the first update, C<ev_stat> detects a change and calls
1660your callback, which does something. When there is another update within
1661the same second, C<ev_stat> will be unable to detect it.
1662
1663The solution to this is to delay acting on a change for a second (or till
1664the next second boundary), using a roughly one-second delay C<ev_timer>
1665(C<ev_timer_set (w, 0., 1.01); ev_timer_again (loop, w)>). The C<.01>
1666is added to work around small timing inconsistencies of some operating
1667systems.
1668
1669=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1670
1274=over 4 1671=over 4
1275 1672
1276=item ev_stat_init (ev_stat *, callback, const char *path, ev_tstamp interval) 1673=item ev_stat_init (ev_stat *, callback, const char *path, ev_tstamp interval)
1277 1674
1278=item ev_stat_set (ev_stat *, const char *path, ev_tstamp interval) 1675=item ev_stat_set (ev_stat *, const char *path, ev_tstamp interval)
1285 1682
1286The callback will be receive C<EV_STAT> when a change was detected, 1683The callback will be receive C<EV_STAT> when a change was detected,
1287relative to the attributes at the time the watcher was started (or the 1684relative to the attributes at the time the watcher was started (or the
1288last change was detected). 1685last change was detected).
1289 1686
1290=item ev_stat_stat (ev_stat *) 1687=item ev_stat_stat (loop, ev_stat *)
1291 1688
1292Updates the stat buffer immediately with new values. If you change the 1689Updates the stat buffer immediately with new values. If you change the
1293watched path in your callback, you could call this fucntion to avoid 1690watched path in your callback, you could call this fucntion to avoid
1294detecting this change (while introducing a race condition). Can also be 1691detecting this change (while introducing a race condition). Can also be
1295useful simply to find out the new values. 1692useful simply to find out the new values.
1313=item const char *path [read-only] 1710=item const char *path [read-only]
1314 1711
1315The filesystem path that is being watched. 1712The filesystem path that is being watched.
1316 1713
1317=back 1714=back
1715
1716=head3 Examples
1318 1717
1319Example: Watch C</etc/passwd> for attribute changes. 1718Example: Watch C</etc/passwd> for attribute changes.
1320 1719
1321 static void 1720 static void
1322 passwd_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_stat *w, int revents) 1721 passwd_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_stat *w, int revents)
1335 } 1734 }
1336 1735
1337 ... 1736 ...
1338 ev_stat passwd; 1737 ev_stat passwd;
1339 1738
1340 ev_stat_init (&passwd, passwd_cb, "/etc/passwd"); 1739 ev_stat_init (&passwd, passwd_cb, "/etc/passwd", 0.);
1341 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd); 1740 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd);
1342 1741
1742Example: Like above, but additionally use a one-second delay so we do not
1743miss updates (however, frequent updates will delay processing, too, so
1744one might do the work both on C<ev_stat> callback invocation I<and> on
1745C<ev_timer> callback invocation).
1746
1747 static ev_stat passwd;
1748 static ev_timer timer;
1749
1750 static void
1751 timer_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1752 {
1753 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ w);
1754
1755 /* now it's one second after the most recent passwd change */
1756 }
1757
1758 static void
1759 stat_cb (EV_P_ ev_stat *w, int revents)
1760 {
1761 /* reset the one-second timer */
1762 ev_timer_again (EV_A_ &timer);
1763 }
1764
1765 ...
1766 ev_stat_init (&passwd, stat_cb, "/etc/passwd", 0.);
1767 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd);
1768 ev_timer_init (&timer, timer_cb, 0., 1.01);
1769
1343 1770
1344=head2 C<ev_idle> - when you've got nothing better to do... 1771=head2 C<ev_idle> - when you've got nothing better to do...
1345 1772
1346Idle watchers trigger events when there are no other events are pending 1773Idle watchers trigger events when no other events of the same or higher
1347(prepare, check and other idle watchers do not count). That is, as long 1774priority are pending (prepare, check and other idle watchers do not
1348as your process is busy handling sockets or timeouts (or even signals, 1775count).
1349imagine) it will not be triggered. But when your process is idle all idle 1776
1350watchers are being called again and again, once per event loop iteration - 1777That is, as long as your process is busy handling sockets or timeouts
1778(or even signals, imagine) of the same or higher priority it will not be
1779triggered. But when your process is idle (or only lower-priority watchers
1780are pending), the idle watchers are being called once per event loop
1351until stopped, that is, or your process receives more events and becomes 1781iteration - until stopped, that is, or your process receives more events
1352busy. 1782and becomes busy again with higher priority stuff.
1353 1783
1354The most noteworthy effect is that as long as any idle watchers are 1784The most noteworthy effect is that as long as any idle watchers are
1355active, the process will not block when waiting for new events. 1785active, the process will not block when waiting for new events.
1356 1786
1357Apart from keeping your process non-blocking (which is a useful 1787Apart from keeping your process non-blocking (which is a useful
1358effect on its own sometimes), idle watchers are a good place to do 1788effect on its own sometimes), idle watchers are a good place to do
1359"pseudo-background processing", or delay processing stuff to after the 1789"pseudo-background processing", or delay processing stuff to after the
1360event loop has handled all outstanding events. 1790event loop has handled all outstanding events.
1361 1791
1792=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1793
1362=over 4 1794=over 4
1363 1795
1364=item ev_idle_init (ev_signal *, callback) 1796=item ev_idle_init (ev_signal *, callback)
1365 1797
1366Initialises and configures the idle watcher - it has no parameters of any 1798Initialises and configures the idle watcher - it has no parameters of any
1367kind. There is a C<ev_idle_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless, 1799kind. There is a C<ev_idle_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless,
1368believe me. 1800believe me.
1369 1801
1370=back 1802=back
1803
1804=head3 Examples
1371 1805
1372Example: Dynamically allocate an C<ev_idle> watcher, start it, and in the 1806Example: Dynamically allocate an C<ev_idle> watcher, start it, and in the
1373callback, free it. Also, use no error checking, as usual. 1807callback, free it. Also, use no error checking, as usual.
1374 1808
1375 static void 1809 static void
1376 idle_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_idle *w, int revents) 1810 idle_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_idle *w, int revents)
1377 { 1811 {
1378 free (w); 1812 free (w);
1379 // now do something you wanted to do when the program has 1813 // now do something you wanted to do when the program has
1380 // no longer asnything immediate to do. 1814 // no longer anything immediate to do.
1381 } 1815 }
1382 1816
1383 struct ev_idle *idle_watcher = malloc (sizeof (struct ev_idle)); 1817 struct ev_idle *idle_watcher = malloc (sizeof (struct ev_idle));
1384 ev_idle_init (idle_watcher, idle_cb); 1818 ev_idle_init (idle_watcher, idle_cb);
1385 ev_idle_start (loop, idle_cb); 1819 ev_idle_start (loop, idle_cb);
1423with priority higher than or equal to the event loop and one coroutine 1857with priority higher than or equal to the event loop and one coroutine
1424of lower priority, but only once, using idle watchers to keep the event 1858of lower priority, but only once, using idle watchers to keep the event
1425loop from blocking if lower-priority coroutines are active, thus mapping 1859loop from blocking if lower-priority coroutines are active, thus mapping
1426low-priority coroutines to idle/background tasks). 1860low-priority coroutines to idle/background tasks).
1427 1861
1862It is recommended to give C<ev_check> watchers highest (C<EV_MAXPRI>)
1863priority, to ensure that they are being run before any other watchers
1864after the poll. Also, C<ev_check> watchers (and C<ev_prepare> watchers,
1865too) should not activate ("feed") events into libev. While libev fully
1866supports this, they will be called before other C<ev_check> watchers
1867did their job. As C<ev_check> watchers are often used to embed other
1868(non-libev) event loops those other event loops might be in an unusable
1869state until their C<ev_check> watcher ran (always remind yourself to
1870coexist peacefully with others).
1871
1872=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1873
1428=over 4 1874=over 4
1429 1875
1430=item ev_prepare_init (ev_prepare *, callback) 1876=item ev_prepare_init (ev_prepare *, callback)
1431 1877
1432=item ev_check_init (ev_check *, callback) 1878=item ev_check_init (ev_check *, callback)
1435parameters of any kind. There are C<ev_prepare_set> and C<ev_check_set> 1881parameters of any kind. There are C<ev_prepare_set> and C<ev_check_set>
1436macros, but using them is utterly, utterly and completely pointless. 1882macros, but using them is utterly, utterly and completely pointless.
1437 1883
1438=back 1884=back
1439 1885
1440Example: To include a library such as adns, you would add IO watchers 1886=head3 Examples
1441and a timeout watcher in a prepare handler, as required by libadns, and 1887
1888There are a number of principal ways to embed other event loops or modules
1889into libev. Here are some ideas on how to include libadns into libev
1890(there is a Perl module named C<EV::ADNS> that does this, which you could
1891use for an actually working example. Another Perl module named C<EV::Glib>
1892embeds a Glib main context into libev, and finally, C<Glib::EV> embeds EV
1893into the Glib event loop).
1894
1895Method 1: Add IO watchers and a timeout watcher in a prepare handler,
1442in a check watcher, destroy them and call into libadns. What follows is 1896and in a check watcher, destroy them and call into libadns. What follows
1443pseudo-code only of course: 1897is pseudo-code only of course. This requires you to either use a low
1898priority for the check watcher or use C<ev_clear_pending> explicitly, as
1899the callbacks for the IO/timeout watchers might not have been called yet.
1444 1900
1445 static ev_io iow [nfd]; 1901 static ev_io iow [nfd];
1446 static ev_timer tw; 1902 static ev_timer tw;
1447 1903
1448 static void 1904 static void
1449 io_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents) 1905 io_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents)
1450 { 1906 {
1451 // set the relevant poll flags
1452 // could also call adns_processreadable etc. here
1453 struct pollfd *fd = (struct pollfd *)w->data;
1454 if (revents & EV_READ ) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLIN;
1455 if (revents & EV_WRITE) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLOUT;
1456 } 1907 }
1457 1908
1458 // create io watchers for each fd and a timer before blocking 1909 // create io watchers for each fd and a timer before blocking
1459 static void 1910 static void
1460 adns_prepare_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_prepare *w, int revents) 1911 adns_prepare_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_prepare *w, int revents)
1466 1917
1467 /* the callback is illegal, but won't be called as we stop during check */ 1918 /* the callback is illegal, but won't be called as we stop during check */
1468 ev_timer_init (&tw, 0, timeout * 1e-3); 1919 ev_timer_init (&tw, 0, timeout * 1e-3);
1469 ev_timer_start (loop, &tw); 1920 ev_timer_start (loop, &tw);
1470 1921
1471 // create on ev_io per pollfd 1922 // create one ev_io per pollfd
1472 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i) 1923 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i)
1473 { 1924 {
1474 ev_io_init (iow + i, io_cb, fds [i].fd, 1925 ev_io_init (iow + i, io_cb, fds [i].fd,
1475 ((fds [i].events & POLLIN ? EV_READ : 0) 1926 ((fds [i].events & POLLIN ? EV_READ : 0)
1476 | (fds [i].events & POLLOUT ? EV_WRITE : 0))); 1927 | (fds [i].events & POLLOUT ? EV_WRITE : 0)));
1477 1928
1478 fds [i].revents = 0; 1929 fds [i].revents = 0;
1479 iow [i].data = fds + i;
1480 ev_io_start (loop, iow + i); 1930 ev_io_start (loop, iow + i);
1481 } 1931 }
1482 } 1932 }
1483 1933
1484 // stop all watchers after blocking 1934 // stop all watchers after blocking
1486 adns_check_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_check *w, int revents) 1936 adns_check_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_check *w, int revents)
1487 { 1937 {
1488 ev_timer_stop (loop, &tw); 1938 ev_timer_stop (loop, &tw);
1489 1939
1490 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i) 1940 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i)
1941 {
1942 // set the relevant poll flags
1943 // could also call adns_processreadable etc. here
1944 struct pollfd *fd = fds + i;
1945 int revents = ev_clear_pending (iow + i);
1946 if (revents & EV_READ ) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLIN;
1947 if (revents & EV_WRITE) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLOUT;
1948
1949 // now stop the watcher
1491 ev_io_stop (loop, iow + i); 1950 ev_io_stop (loop, iow + i);
1951 }
1492 1952
1493 adns_afterpoll (adns, fds, nfd, timeval_from (ev_now (loop)); 1953 adns_afterpoll (adns, fds, nfd, timeval_from (ev_now (loop));
1954 }
1955
1956Method 2: This would be just like method 1, but you run C<adns_afterpoll>
1957in the prepare watcher and would dispose of the check watcher.
1958
1959Method 3: If the module to be embedded supports explicit event
1960notification (adns does), you can also make use of the actual watcher
1961callbacks, and only destroy/create the watchers in the prepare watcher.
1962
1963 static void
1964 timer_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1965 {
1966 adns_state ads = (adns_state)w->data;
1967 update_now (EV_A);
1968
1969 adns_processtimeouts (ads, &tv_now);
1970 }
1971
1972 static void
1973 io_cb (EV_P_ ev_io *w, int revents)
1974 {
1975 adns_state ads = (adns_state)w->data;
1976 update_now (EV_A);
1977
1978 if (revents & EV_READ ) adns_processreadable (ads, w->fd, &tv_now);
1979 if (revents & EV_WRITE) adns_processwriteable (ads, w->fd, &tv_now);
1980 }
1981
1982 // do not ever call adns_afterpoll
1983
1984Method 4: Do not use a prepare or check watcher because the module you
1985want to embed is too inflexible to support it. Instead, youc na override
1986their poll function. The drawback with this solution is that the main
1987loop is now no longer controllable by EV. The C<Glib::EV> module does
1988this.
1989
1990 static gint
1991 event_poll_func (GPollFD *fds, guint nfds, gint timeout)
1992 {
1993 int got_events = 0;
1994
1995 for (n = 0; n < nfds; ++n)
1996 // create/start io watcher that sets the relevant bits in fds[n] and increment got_events
1997
1998 if (timeout >= 0)
1999 // create/start timer
2000
2001 // poll
2002 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0);
2003
2004 // stop timer again
2005 if (timeout >= 0)
2006 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &to);
2007
2008 // stop io watchers again - their callbacks should have set
2009 for (n = 0; n < nfds; ++n)
2010 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ iow [n]);
2011
2012 return got_events;
1494 } 2013 }
1495 2014
1496 2015
1497=head2 C<ev_embed> - when one backend isn't enough... 2016=head2 C<ev_embed> - when one backend isn't enough...
1498 2017
1541portable one. 2060portable one.
1542 2061
1543So when you want to use this feature you will always have to be prepared 2062So when you want to use this feature you will always have to be prepared
1544that you cannot get an embeddable loop. The recommended way to get around 2063that you cannot get an embeddable loop. The recommended way to get around
1545this is to have a separate variables for your embeddable loop, try to 2064this is to have a separate variables for your embeddable loop, try to
1546create it, and if that fails, use the normal loop for everything: 2065create it, and if that fails, use the normal loop for everything.
2066
2067=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
2068
2069=over 4
2070
2071=item ev_embed_init (ev_embed *, callback, struct ev_loop *embedded_loop)
2072
2073=item ev_embed_set (ev_embed *, callback, struct ev_loop *embedded_loop)
2074
2075Configures the watcher to embed the given loop, which must be
2076embeddable. If the callback is C<0>, then C<ev_embed_sweep> will be
2077invoked automatically, otherwise it is the responsibility of the callback
2078to invoke it (it will continue to be called until the sweep has been done,
2079if you do not want thta, you need to temporarily stop the embed watcher).
2080
2081=item ev_embed_sweep (loop, ev_embed *)
2082
2083Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works
2084similarly to C<ev_loop (embedded_loop, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK)>, but in the most
2085apropriate way for embedded loops.
2086
2087=item struct ev_loop *other [read-only]
2088
2089The embedded event loop.
2090
2091=back
2092
2093=head3 Examples
2094
2095Example: Try to get an embeddable event loop and embed it into the default
2096event loop. If that is not possible, use the default loop. The default
2097loop is stored in C<loop_hi>, while the mebeddable loop is stored in
2098C<loop_lo> (which is C<loop_hi> in the acse no embeddable loop can be
2099used).
1547 2100
1548 struct ev_loop *loop_hi = ev_default_init (0); 2101 struct ev_loop *loop_hi = ev_default_init (0);
1549 struct ev_loop *loop_lo = 0; 2102 struct ev_loop *loop_lo = 0;
1550 struct ev_embed embed; 2103 struct ev_embed embed;
1551 2104
1562 ev_embed_start (loop_hi, &embed); 2115 ev_embed_start (loop_hi, &embed);
1563 } 2116 }
1564 else 2117 else
1565 loop_lo = loop_hi; 2118 loop_lo = loop_hi;
1566 2119
1567=over 4 2120Example: Check if kqueue is available but not recommended and create
2121a kqueue backend for use with sockets (which usually work with any
2122kqueue implementation). Store the kqueue/socket-only event loop in
2123C<loop_socket>. (One might optionally use C<EVFLAG_NOENV>, too).
1568 2124
1569=item ev_embed_init (ev_embed *, callback, struct ev_loop *embedded_loop) 2125 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0);
2126 struct ev_loop *loop_socket = 0;
2127 struct ev_embed embed;
2128
2129 if (ev_supported_backends () & ~ev_recommended_backends () & EVBACKEND_KQUEUE)
2130 if ((loop_socket = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_KQUEUE))
2131 {
2132 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_socket);
2133 ev_embed_start (loop, &embed);
2134 }
1570 2135
1571=item ev_embed_set (ev_embed *, callback, struct ev_loop *embedded_loop) 2136 if (!loop_socket)
2137 loop_socket = loop;
1572 2138
1573Configures the watcher to embed the given loop, which must be 2139 // now use loop_socket for all sockets, and loop for everything else
1574embeddable. If the callback is C<0>, then C<ev_embed_sweep> will be
1575invoked automatically, otherwise it is the responsibility of the callback
1576to invoke it (it will continue to be called until the sweep has been done,
1577if you do not want thta, you need to temporarily stop the embed watcher).
1578
1579=item ev_embed_sweep (loop, ev_embed *)
1580
1581Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works
1582similarly to C<ev_loop (embedded_loop, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK)>, but in the most
1583apropriate way for embedded loops.
1584
1585=item struct ev_loop *loop [read-only]
1586
1587The embedded event loop.
1588
1589=back
1590 2140
1591 2141
1592=head2 C<ev_fork> - the audacity to resume the event loop after a fork 2142=head2 C<ev_fork> - the audacity to resume the event loop after a fork
1593 2143
1594Fork watchers are called when a C<fork ()> was detected (usually because 2144Fork watchers are called when a C<fork ()> was detected (usually because
1597event loop blocks next and before C<ev_check> watchers are being called, 2147event loop blocks next and before C<ev_check> watchers are being called,
1598and only in the child after the fork. If whoever good citizen calling 2148and only in the child after the fork. If whoever good citizen calling
1599C<ev_default_fork> cheats and calls it in the wrong process, the fork 2149C<ev_default_fork> cheats and calls it in the wrong process, the fork
1600handlers will be invoked, too, of course. 2150handlers will be invoked, too, of course.
1601 2151
2152=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
2153
1602=over 4 2154=over 4
1603 2155
1604=item ev_fork_init (ev_signal *, callback) 2156=item ev_fork_init (ev_signal *, callback)
1605 2157
1606Initialises and configures the fork watcher - it has no parameters of any 2158Initialises and configures the fork watcher - it has no parameters of any
1607kind. There is a C<ev_fork_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless, 2159kind. There is a C<ev_fork_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless,
1608believe me. 2160believe me.
2161
2162=back
2163
2164
2165=head2 C<ev_async> - how to wake up another event loop
2166
2167In general, you cannot use an C<ev_loop> from multiple threads or other
2168asynchronous sources such as signal handlers (as opposed to multiple event
2169loops - those are of course safe to use in different threads).
2170
2171Sometimes, however, you need to wake up another event loop you do not
2172control, for example because it belongs to another thread. This is what
2173C<ev_async> watchers do: as long as the C<ev_async> watcher is active, you
2174can signal it by calling C<ev_async_send>, which is thread- and signal
2175safe.
2176
2177This functionality is very similar to C<ev_signal> watchers, as signals,
2178too, are asynchronous in nature, and signals, too, will be compressed
2179(i.e. the number of callback invocations may be less than the number of
2180C<ev_async_sent> calls).
2181
2182Unlike C<ev_signal> watchers, C<ev_async> works with any event loop, not
2183just the default loop.
2184
2185=head3 Queueing
2186
2187C<ev_async> does not support queueing of data in any way. The reason
2188is that the author does not know of a simple (or any) algorithm for a
2189multiple-writer-single-reader queue that works in all cases and doesn't
2190need elaborate support such as pthreads.
2191
2192That means that if you want to queue data, you have to provide your own
2193queue. But at least I can tell you would implement locking around your
2194queue:
2195
2196=over 4
2197
2198=item queueing from a signal handler context
2199
2200To implement race-free queueing, you simply add to the queue in the signal
2201handler but you block the signal handler in the watcher callback. Here is an example that does that for
2202some fictitiuous SIGUSR1 handler:
2203
2204 static ev_async mysig;
2205
2206 static void
2207 sigusr1_handler (void)
2208 {
2209 sometype data;
2210
2211 // no locking etc.
2212 queue_put (data);
2213 ev_async_send (EV_DEFAULT_ &mysig);
2214 }
2215
2216 static void
2217 mysig_cb (EV_P_ ev_async *w, int revents)
2218 {
2219 sometype data;
2220 sigset_t block, prev;
2221
2222 sigemptyset (&block);
2223 sigaddset (&block, SIGUSR1);
2224 sigprocmask (SIG_BLOCK, &block, &prev);
2225
2226 while (queue_get (&data))
2227 process (data);
2228
2229 if (sigismember (&prev, SIGUSR1)
2230 sigprocmask (SIG_UNBLOCK, &block, 0);
2231 }
2232
2233(Note: pthreads in theory requires you to use C<pthread_setmask>
2234instead of C<sigprocmask> when you use threads, but libev doesn't do it
2235either...).
2236
2237=item queueing from a thread context
2238
2239The strategy for threads is different, as you cannot (easily) block
2240threads but you can easily preempt them, so to queue safely you need to
2241employ a traditional mutex lock, such as in this pthread example:
2242
2243 static ev_async mysig;
2244 static pthread_mutex_t mymutex = PTHREAD_MUTEX_INITIALIZER;
2245
2246 static void
2247 otherthread (void)
2248 {
2249 // only need to lock the actual queueing operation
2250 pthread_mutex_lock (&mymutex);
2251 queue_put (data);
2252 pthread_mutex_unlock (&mymutex);
2253
2254 ev_async_send (EV_DEFAULT_ &mysig);
2255 }
2256
2257 static void
2258 mysig_cb (EV_P_ ev_async *w, int revents)
2259 {
2260 pthread_mutex_lock (&mymutex);
2261
2262 while (queue_get (&data))
2263 process (data);
2264
2265 pthread_mutex_unlock (&mymutex);
2266 }
2267
2268=back
2269
2270
2271=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
2272
2273=over 4
2274
2275=item ev_async_init (ev_async *, callback)
2276
2277Initialises and configures the async watcher - it has no parameters of any
2278kind. There is a C<ev_asynd_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless,
2279believe me.
2280
2281=item ev_async_send (loop, ev_async *)
2282
2283Sends/signals/activates the given C<ev_async> watcher, that is, feeds
2284an C<EV_ASYNC> event on the watcher into the event loop. Unlike
2285C<ev_feed_event>, this call is safe to do in other threads, signal or
2286similar contexts (see the dicusssion of C<EV_ATOMIC_T> in the embedding
2287section below on what exactly this means).
2288
2289This call incurs the overhead of a syscall only once per loop iteration,
2290so while the overhead might be noticable, it doesn't apply to repeated
2291calls to C<ev_async_send>.
2292
2293=item bool = ev_async_pending (ev_async *)
2294
2295Returns a non-zero value when C<ev_async_send> has been called on the
2296watcher but the event has not yet been processed (or even noted) by the
2297event loop.
2298
2299C<ev_async_send> sets a flag in the watcher and wakes up the loop. When
2300the loop iterates next and checks for the watcher to have become active,
2301it will reset the flag again. C<ev_async_pending> can be used to very
2302quickly check wether invoking the loop might be a good idea.
2303
2304Not that this does I<not> check wether the watcher itself is pending, only
2305wether it has been requested to make this watcher pending.
1609 2306
1610=back 2307=back
1611 2308
1612 2309
1613=head1 OTHER FUNCTIONS 2310=head1 OTHER FUNCTIONS
1702 2399
1703To use it, 2400To use it,
1704 2401
1705 #include <ev++.h> 2402 #include <ev++.h>
1706 2403
1707(it is not installed by default). This automatically includes F<ev.h> 2404This automatically includes F<ev.h> and puts all of its definitions (many
1708and puts all of its definitions (many of them macros) into the global 2405of them macros) into the global namespace. All C++ specific things are
1709namespace. All C++ specific things are put into the C<ev> namespace. 2406put into the C<ev> namespace. It should support all the same embedding
2407options as F<ev.h>, most notably C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>.
1710 2408
1711It should support all the same embedding options as F<ev.h>, most notably 2409Care has been taken to keep the overhead low. The only data member the C++
1712C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>. 2410classes add (compared to plain C-style watchers) is the event loop pointer
2411that the watcher is associated with (or no additional members at all if
2412you disable C<EV_MULTIPLICITY> when embedding libev).
2413
2414Currently, functions, and static and non-static member functions can be
2415used as callbacks. Other types should be easy to add as long as they only
2416need one additional pointer for context. If you need support for other
2417types of functors please contact the author (preferably after implementing
2418it).
1713 2419
1714Here is a list of things available in the C<ev> namespace: 2420Here is a list of things available in the C<ev> namespace:
1715 2421
1716=over 4 2422=over 4
1717 2423
1733 2439
1734All of those classes have these methods: 2440All of those classes have these methods:
1735 2441
1736=over 4 2442=over 4
1737 2443
1738=item ev::TYPE::TYPE (object *, object::method *) 2444=item ev::TYPE::TYPE ()
1739 2445
1740=item ev::TYPE::TYPE (object *, object::method *, struct ev_loop *) 2446=item ev::TYPE::TYPE (struct ev_loop *)
1741 2447
1742=item ev::TYPE::~TYPE 2448=item ev::TYPE::~TYPE
1743 2449
1744The constructor takes a pointer to an object and a method pointer to 2450The constructor (optionally) takes an event loop to associate the watcher
1745the event handler callback to call in this class. The constructor calls 2451with. If it is omitted, it will use C<EV_DEFAULT>.
1746C<ev_init> for you, which means you have to call the C<set> method 2452
1747before starting it. If you do not specify a loop then the constructor 2453The constructor calls C<ev_init> for you, which means you have to call the
1748automatically associates the default loop with this watcher. 2454C<set> method before starting it.
2455
2456It will not set a callback, however: You have to call the templated C<set>
2457method to set a callback before you can start the watcher.
2458
2459(The reason why you have to use a method is a limitation in C++ which does
2460not allow explicit template arguments for constructors).
1749 2461
1750The destructor automatically stops the watcher if it is active. 2462The destructor automatically stops the watcher if it is active.
2463
2464=item w->set<class, &class::method> (object *)
2465
2466This method sets the callback method to call. The method has to have a
2467signature of C<void (*)(ev_TYPE &, int)>, it receives the watcher as
2468first argument and the C<revents> as second. The object must be given as
2469parameter and is stored in the C<data> member of the watcher.
2470
2471This method synthesizes efficient thunking code to call your method from
2472the C callback that libev requires. If your compiler can inline your
2473callback (i.e. it is visible to it at the place of the C<set> call and
2474your compiler is good :), then the method will be fully inlined into the
2475thunking function, making it as fast as a direct C callback.
2476
2477Example: simple class declaration and watcher initialisation
2478
2479 struct myclass
2480 {
2481 void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { }
2482 }
2483
2484 myclass obj;
2485 ev::io iow;
2486 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj);
2487
2488=item w->set<function> (void *data = 0)
2489
2490Also sets a callback, but uses a static method or plain function as
2491callback. The optional C<data> argument will be stored in the watcher's
2492C<data> member and is free for you to use.
2493
2494The prototype of the C<function> must be C<void (*)(ev::TYPE &w, int)>.
2495
2496See the method-C<set> above for more details.
2497
2498Example:
2499
2500 static void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { }
2501 iow.set <io_cb> ();
1751 2502
1752=item w->set (struct ev_loop *) 2503=item w->set (struct ev_loop *)
1753 2504
1754Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only 2505Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only
1755do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either). 2506do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either).
1756 2507
1757=item w->set ([args]) 2508=item w->set ([args])
1758 2509
1759Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same args. Must be 2510Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same args. Must be
1760called at least once. Unlike the C counterpart, an active watcher gets 2511called at least once. Unlike the C counterpart, an active watcher gets
1761automatically stopped and restarted. 2512automatically stopped and restarted when reconfiguring it with this
2513method.
1762 2514
1763=item w->start () 2515=item w->start ()
1764 2516
1765Starts the watcher. Note that there is no C<loop> argument as the 2517Starts the watcher. Note that there is no C<loop> argument, as the
1766constructor already takes the loop. 2518constructor already stores the event loop.
1767 2519
1768=item w->stop () 2520=item w->stop ()
1769 2521
1770Stops the watcher if it is active. Again, no C<loop> argument. 2522Stops the watcher if it is active. Again, no C<loop> argument.
1771 2523
1772=item w->again () C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic> only 2524=item w->again () (C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic> only)
1773 2525
1774For C<ev::timer> and C<ev::periodic>, this invokes the corresponding 2526For C<ev::timer> and C<ev::periodic>, this invokes the corresponding
1775C<ev_TYPE_again> function. 2527C<ev_TYPE_again> function.
1776 2528
1777=item w->sweep () C<ev::embed> only 2529=item w->sweep () (C<ev::embed> only)
1778 2530
1779Invokes C<ev_embed_sweep>. 2531Invokes C<ev_embed_sweep>.
1780 2532
1781=item w->update () C<ev::stat> only 2533=item w->update () (C<ev::stat> only)
1782 2534
1783Invokes C<ev_stat_stat>. 2535Invokes C<ev_stat_stat>.
1784 2536
1785=back 2537=back
1786 2538
1789Example: Define a class with an IO and idle watcher, start one of them in 2541Example: Define a class with an IO and idle watcher, start one of them in
1790the constructor. 2542the constructor.
1791 2543
1792 class myclass 2544 class myclass
1793 { 2545 {
1794 ev_io io; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents); 2546 ev::io io; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents);
1795 ev_idle idle void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents); 2547 ev:idle idle void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents);
1796 2548
1797 myclass (); 2549 myclass (int fd)
1798 }
1799
1800 myclass::myclass (int fd)
1801 : io (this, &myclass::io_cb),
1802 idle (this, &myclass::idle_cb)
1803 { 2550 {
2551 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this);
2552 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this);
2553
1804 io.start (fd, ev::READ); 2554 io.start (fd, ev::READ);
2555 }
1805 } 2556 };
2557
2558
2559=head1 OTHER LANGUAGE BINDINGS
2560
2561Libev does not offer other language bindings itself, but bindings for a
2562numbe rof languages exist in the form of third-party packages. If you know
2563any interesting language binding in addition to the ones listed here, drop
2564me a note.
2565
2566=over 4
2567
2568=item Perl
2569
2570The EV module implements the full libev API and is actually used to test
2571libev. EV is developed together with libev. Apart from the EV core module,
2572there are additional modules that implement libev-compatible interfaces
2573to C<libadns> (C<EV::ADNS>), C<Net::SNMP> (C<Net::SNMP::EV>) and the
2574C<libglib> event core (C<Glib::EV> and C<EV::Glib>).
2575
2576It can be found and installed via CPAN, its homepage is found at
2577L<http://software.schmorp.de/pkg/EV>.
2578
2579=item Ruby
2580
2581Tony Arcieri has written a ruby extension that offers access to a subset
2582of the libev API and adds filehandle abstractions, asynchronous DNS and
2583more on top of it. It can be found via gem servers. Its homepage is at
2584L<http://rev.rubyforge.org/>.
2585
2586=item D
2587
2588Leandro Lucarella has written a D language binding (F<ev.d>) for libev, to
2589be found at L<http://git.llucax.com.ar/?p=software/ev.d.git;a=summary>.
2590
2591=back
1806 2592
1807 2593
1808=head1 MACRO MAGIC 2594=head1 MACRO MAGIC
1809 2595
1810Libev can be compiled with a variety of options, the most fundemantal is 2596Libev can be compiled with a variety of options, the most fundamantal
1811C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>. This option determines wether (most) functions and 2597of which is C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>. This option determines whether (most)
1812callbacks have an initial C<struct ev_loop *> argument. 2598functions and callbacks have an initial C<struct ev_loop *> argument.
1813 2599
1814To make it easier to write programs that cope with either variant, the 2600To make it easier to write programs that cope with either variant, the
1815following macros are defined: 2601following macros are defined:
1816 2602
1817=over 4 2603=over 4
1850loop, if multiple loops are supported ("ev loop default"). 2636loop, if multiple loops are supported ("ev loop default").
1851 2637
1852=back 2638=back
1853 2639
1854Example: Declare and initialise a check watcher, utilising the above 2640Example: Declare and initialise a check watcher, utilising the above
1855macros so it will work regardless of wether multiple loops are supported 2641macros so it will work regardless of whether multiple loops are supported
1856or not. 2642or not.
1857 2643
1858 static void 2644 static void
1859 check_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 2645 check_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1860 { 2646 {
1871Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host 2657Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host
1872applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra 2658applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra
1873Game Server, the EV perl module, the GNU Virtual Private Ethernet (gvpe) 2659Game Server, the EV perl module, the GNU Virtual Private Ethernet (gvpe)
1874and rxvt-unicode. 2660and rxvt-unicode.
1875 2661
1876The goal is to enable you to just copy the neecssary files into your 2662The goal is to enable you to just copy the necessary files into your
1877source directory without having to change even a single line in them, so 2663source directory without having to change even a single line in them, so
1878you can easily upgrade by simply copying (or having a checked-out copy of 2664you can easily upgrade by simply copying (or having a checked-out copy of
1879libev somewhere in your source tree). 2665libev somewhere in your source tree).
1880 2666
1881=head2 FILESETS 2667=head2 FILESETS
1971 2757
1972If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the 2758If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the
1973monotonic clock option at both compiletime and runtime. Otherwise no use 2759monotonic clock option at both compiletime and runtime. Otherwise no use
1974of the monotonic clock option will be attempted. If you enable this, you 2760of the monotonic clock option will be attempted. If you enable this, you
1975usually have to link against librt or something similar. Enabling it when 2761usually have to link against librt or something similar. Enabling it when
1976the functionality isn't available is safe, though, althoguh you have 2762the functionality isn't available is safe, though, although you have
1977to make sure you link against any libraries where the C<clock_gettime> 2763to make sure you link against any libraries where the C<clock_gettime>
1978function is hiding in (often F<-lrt>). 2764function is hiding in (often F<-lrt>).
1979 2765
1980=item EV_USE_REALTIME 2766=item EV_USE_REALTIME
1981 2767
1982If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the 2768If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the
1983realtime clock option at compiletime (and assume its availability at 2769realtime clock option at compiletime (and assume its availability at
1984runtime if successful). Otherwise no use of the realtime clock option will 2770runtime if successful). Otherwise no use of the realtime clock option will
1985be attempted. This effectively replaces C<gettimeofday> by C<clock_get 2771be attempted. This effectively replaces C<gettimeofday> by C<clock_get
1986(CLOCK_REALTIME, ...)> and will not normally affect correctness. See tzhe note about libraries 2772(CLOCK_REALTIME, ...)> and will not normally affect correctness. See the
1987in the description of C<EV_USE_MONOTONIC>, though. 2773note about libraries in the description of C<EV_USE_MONOTONIC>, though.
2774
2775=item EV_USE_NANOSLEEP
2776
2777If defined to be C<1>, libev will assume that C<nanosleep ()> is available
2778and will use it for delays. Otherwise it will use C<select ()>.
1988 2779
1989=item EV_USE_SELECT 2780=item EV_USE_SELECT
1990 2781
1991If undefined or defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the 2782If undefined or defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the
1992C<select>(2) backend. No attempt at autodetection will be done: if no 2783C<select>(2) backend. No attempt at autodetection will be done: if no
2010wants osf handles on win32 (this is the case when the select to 2801wants osf handles on win32 (this is the case when the select to
2011be used is the winsock select). This means that it will call 2802be used is the winsock select). This means that it will call
2012C<_get_osfhandle> on the fd to convert it to an OS handle. Otherwise, 2803C<_get_osfhandle> on the fd to convert it to an OS handle. Otherwise,
2013it is assumed that all these functions actually work on fds, even 2804it is assumed that all these functions actually work on fds, even
2014on win32. Should not be defined on non-win32 platforms. 2805on win32. Should not be defined on non-win32 platforms.
2806
2807=item EV_FD_TO_WIN32_HANDLE
2808
2809If C<EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET> is enabled, then libev needs a way to map
2810file descriptors to socket handles. When not defining this symbol (the
2811default), then libev will call C<_get_osfhandle>, which is usually
2812correct. In some cases, programs use their own file descriptor management,
2813in which case they can provide this function to map fds to socket handles.
2015 2814
2016=item EV_USE_POLL 2815=item EV_USE_POLL
2017 2816
2018If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the C<poll>(2) 2817If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the C<poll>(2)
2019backend. Otherwise it will be enabled on non-win32 platforms. It 2818backend. Otherwise it will be enabled on non-win32 platforms. It
2053 2852
2054If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux inotify 2853If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux inotify
2055interface to speed up C<ev_stat> watchers. Its actual availability will 2854interface to speed up C<ev_stat> watchers. Its actual availability will
2056be detected at runtime. 2855be detected at runtime.
2057 2856
2857=item EV_ATOMIC_T
2858
2859Libev requires an integer type (suitable for storing C<0> or C<1>) whose
2860access is atomic with respect to other threads or signal contexts. No such
2861type is easily found in the C language, so you can provide your own type
2862that you know is safe for your purposes. It is used both for signal handler "locking"
2863as well as for signal and thread safety in C<ev_async> watchers.
2864
2865In the absense of this define, libev will use C<sig_atomic_t volatile>
2866(from F<signal.h>), which is usually good enough on most platforms.
2867
2058=item EV_H 2868=item EV_H
2059 2869
2060The name of the F<ev.h> header file used to include it. The default if 2870The name of the F<ev.h> header file used to include it. The default if
2061undefined is C<< <ev.h> >> in F<event.h> and C<"ev.h"> in F<ev.c>. This 2871undefined is C<"ev.h"> in F<event.h>, F<ev.c> and F<ev++.h>. This can be
2062can be used to virtually rename the F<ev.h> header file in case of conflicts. 2872used to virtually rename the F<ev.h> header file in case of conflicts.
2063 2873
2064=item EV_CONFIG_H 2874=item EV_CONFIG_H
2065 2875
2066If C<EV_STANDALONE> isn't C<1>, this variable can be used to override 2876If C<EV_STANDALONE> isn't C<1>, this variable can be used to override
2067F<ev.c>'s idea of where to find the F<config.h> file, similarly to 2877F<ev.c>'s idea of where to find the F<config.h> file, similarly to
2068C<EV_H>, above. 2878C<EV_H>, above.
2069 2879
2070=item EV_EVENT_H 2880=item EV_EVENT_H
2071 2881
2072Similarly to C<EV_H>, this macro can be used to override F<event.c>'s idea 2882Similarly to C<EV_H>, this macro can be used to override F<event.c>'s idea
2073of how the F<event.h> header can be found. 2883of how the F<event.h> header can be found, the default is C<"event.h">.
2074 2884
2075=item EV_PROTOTYPES 2885=item EV_PROTOTYPES
2076 2886
2077If defined to be C<0>, then F<ev.h> will not define any function 2887If defined to be C<0>, then F<ev.h> will not define any function
2078prototypes, but still define all the structs and other symbols. This is 2888prototypes, but still define all the structs and other symbols. This is
2085will have the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument, and you can create 2895will have the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument, and you can create
2086additional independent event loops. Otherwise there will be no support 2896additional independent event loops. Otherwise there will be no support
2087for multiple event loops and there is no first event loop pointer 2897for multiple event loops and there is no first event loop pointer
2088argument. Instead, all functions act on the single default loop. 2898argument. Instead, all functions act on the single default loop.
2089 2899
2900=item EV_MINPRI
2901
2902=item EV_MAXPRI
2903
2904The range of allowed priorities. C<EV_MINPRI> must be smaller or equal to
2905C<EV_MAXPRI>, but otherwise there are no non-obvious limitations. You can
2906provide for more priorities by overriding those symbols (usually defined
2907to be C<-2> and C<2>, respectively).
2908
2909When doing priority-based operations, libev usually has to linearly search
2910all the priorities, so having many of them (hundreds) uses a lot of space
2911and time, so using the defaults of five priorities (-2 .. +2) is usually
2912fine.
2913
2914If your embedding app does not need any priorities, defining these both to
2915C<0> will save some memory and cpu.
2916
2090=item EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 2917=item EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE
2091 2918
2092If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then periodic timers are supported. If 2919If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then periodic timers are supported. If
2093defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of 2920defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of
2094code. 2921code.
2095 2922
2923=item EV_IDLE_ENABLE
2924
2925If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then idle watchers are supported. If
2926defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of
2927code.
2928
2096=item EV_EMBED_ENABLE 2929=item EV_EMBED_ENABLE
2097 2930
2098If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then embed watchers are supported. If 2931If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then embed watchers are supported. If
2099defined to be C<0>, then they are not. 2932defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
2100 2933
2104defined to be C<0>, then they are not. 2937defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
2105 2938
2106=item EV_FORK_ENABLE 2939=item EV_FORK_ENABLE
2107 2940
2108If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then fork watchers are supported. If 2941If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then fork watchers are supported. If
2942defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
2943
2944=item EV_ASYNC_ENABLE
2945
2946If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then async watchers are supported. If
2109defined to be C<0>, then they are not. 2947defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
2110 2948
2111=item EV_MINIMAL 2949=item EV_MINIMAL
2112 2950
2113If you need to shave off some kilobytes of code at the expense of some 2951If you need to shave off some kilobytes of code at the expense of some
2121than enough. If you need to manage thousands of children you might want to 2959than enough. If you need to manage thousands of children you might want to
2122increase this value (I<must> be a power of two). 2960increase this value (I<must> be a power of two).
2123 2961
2124=item EV_INOTIFY_HASHSIZE 2962=item EV_INOTIFY_HASHSIZE
2125 2963
2126C<ev_staz> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by 2964C<ev_stat> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by
2127inotify watch id. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>), 2965inotify watch id. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>),
2128usually more than enough. If you need to manage thousands of C<ev_stat> 2966usually more than enough. If you need to manage thousands of C<ev_stat>
2129watchers you might want to increase this value (I<must> be a power of 2967watchers you might want to increase this value (I<must> be a power of
2130two). 2968two).
2131 2969
2148 2986
2149=item ev_set_cb (ev, cb) 2987=item ev_set_cb (ev, cb)
2150 2988
2151Can be used to change the callback member declaration in each watcher, 2989Can be used to change the callback member declaration in each watcher,
2152and the way callbacks are invoked and set. Must expand to a struct member 2990and the way callbacks are invoked and set. Must expand to a struct member
2153definition and a statement, respectively. See the F<ev.v> header file for 2991definition and a statement, respectively. See the F<ev.h> header file for
2154their default definitions. One possible use for overriding these is to 2992their default definitions. One possible use for overriding these is to
2155avoid the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument in all cases, or to use 2993avoid the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument in all cases, or to use
2156method calls instead of plain function calls in C++. 2994method calls instead of plain function calls in C++.
2995
2996=head2 EXPORTED API SYMBOLS
2997
2998If you need to re-export the API (e.g. via a dll) and you need a list of
2999exported symbols, you can use the provided F<Symbol.*> files which list
3000all public symbols, one per line:
3001
3002 Symbols.ev for libev proper
3003 Symbols.event for the libevent emulation
3004
3005This can also be used to rename all public symbols to avoid clashes with
3006multiple versions of libev linked together (which is obviously bad in
3007itself, but sometimes it is inconvinient to avoid this).
3008
3009A sed command like this will create wrapper C<#define>'s that you need to
3010include before including F<ev.h>:
3011
3012 <Symbols.ev sed -e "s/.*/#define & myprefix_&/" >wrap.h
3013
3014This would create a file F<wrap.h> which essentially looks like this:
3015
3016 #define ev_backend myprefix_ev_backend
3017 #define ev_check_start myprefix_ev_check_start
3018 #define ev_check_stop myprefix_ev_check_stop
3019 ...
2157 3020
2158=head2 EXAMPLES 3021=head2 EXAMPLES
2159 3022
2160For a real-world example of a program the includes libev 3023For a real-world example of a program the includes libev
2161verbatim, you can have a look at the EV perl module 3024verbatim, you can have a look at the EV perl module
2190 3053
2191In this section the complexities of (many of) the algorithms used inside 3054In this section the complexities of (many of) the algorithms used inside
2192libev will be explained. For complexity discussions about backends see the 3055libev will be explained. For complexity discussions about backends see the
2193documentation for C<ev_default_init>. 3056documentation for C<ev_default_init>.
2194 3057
3058All of the following are about amortised time: If an array needs to be
3059extended, libev needs to realloc and move the whole array, but this
3060happens asymptotically never with higher number of elements, so O(1) might
3061mean it might do a lengthy realloc operation in rare cases, but on average
3062it is much faster and asymptotically approaches constant time.
3063
2195=over 4 3064=over 4
2196 3065
2197=item Starting and stopping timer/periodic watchers: O(log skipped_other_timers) 3066=item Starting and stopping timer/periodic watchers: O(log skipped_other_timers)
2198 3067
3068This means that, when you have a watcher that triggers in one hour and
3069there are 100 watchers that would trigger before that then inserting will
3070have to skip roughly seven (C<ld 100>) of these watchers.
3071
2199=item Changing timer/periodic watchers (by autorepeat, again): O(log skipped_other_timers) 3072=item Changing timer/periodic watchers (by autorepeat or calling again): O(log skipped_other_timers)
2200 3073
3074That means that changing a timer costs less than removing/adding them
3075as only the relative motion in the event queue has to be paid for.
3076
2201=item Starting io/check/prepare/idle/signal/child watchers: O(1) 3077=item Starting io/check/prepare/idle/signal/child/fork/async watchers: O(1)
2202 3078
3079These just add the watcher into an array or at the head of a list.
3080
2203=item Stopping check/prepare/idle watchers: O(1) 3081=item Stopping check/prepare/idle/fork/async watchers: O(1)
2204 3082
2205=item Stopping an io/signal/child watcher: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_(fd/signal/pid % EV_PID_HASHSIZE)) 3083=item Stopping an io/signal/child watcher: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_(fd/signal/pid % EV_PID_HASHSIZE))
2206 3084
3085These watchers are stored in lists then need to be walked to find the
3086correct watcher to remove. The lists are usually short (you don't usually
3087have many watchers waiting for the same fd or signal).
3088
2207=item Finding the next timer per loop iteration: O(1) 3089=item Finding the next timer in each loop iteration: O(1)
3090
3091By virtue of using a binary heap, the next timer is always found at the
3092beginning of the storage array.
2208 3093
2209=item Each change on a file descriptor per loop iteration: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_fd) 3094=item Each change on a file descriptor per loop iteration: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_fd)
2210 3095
2211=item Activating one watcher: O(1) 3096A change means an I/O watcher gets started or stopped, which requires
3097libev to recalculate its status (and possibly tell the kernel, depending
3098on backend and wether C<ev_io_set> was used).
3099
3100=item Activating one watcher (putting it into the pending state): O(1)
3101
3102=item Priority handling: O(number_of_priorities)
3103
3104Priorities are implemented by allocating some space for each
3105priority. When doing priority-based operations, libev usually has to
3106linearly search all the priorities, but starting/stopping and activating
3107watchers becomes O(1) w.r.t. priority handling.
3108
3109=item Sending an ev_async: O(1)
3110
3111=item Processing ev_async_send: O(number_of_async_watchers)
3112
3113=item Processing signals: O(max_signal_number)
3114
3115Sending involves a syscall I<iff> there were no other C<ev_async_send>
3116calls in the current loop iteration. Checking for async and signal events
3117involves iterating over all running async watchers or all signal numbers.
2212 3118
2213=back 3119=back
2214 3120
2215 3121
3122=head1 Win32 platform limitations and workarounds
3123
3124Win32 doesn't support any of the standards (e.g. POSIX) that libev
3125requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX
3126model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in
3127the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket
3128descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using
3129e.g. cygwin.
3130
3131There is no supported compilation method available on windows except
3132embedding it into other applications.
3133
3134Due to the many, low, and arbitrary limits on the win32 platform and the
3135abysmal performance of winsockets, using a large number of sockets is not
3136recommended (and not reasonable). If your program needs to use more than
3137a hundred or so sockets, then likely it needs to use a totally different
3138implementation for windows, as libev offers the POSIX model, which cannot
3139be implemented efficiently on windows (microsoft monopoly games).
3140
3141=over 4
3142
3143=item The winsocket select function
3144
3145The winsocket C<select> function doesn't follow POSIX in that it requires
3146socket I<handles> and not socket I<file descriptors>. This makes select
3147very inefficient, and also requires a mapping from file descriptors
3148to socket handles. See the discussion of the C<EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET>,
3149C<EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET> and C<EV_FD_TO_WIN32_HANDLE> preprocessor
3150symbols for more info.
3151
3152The configuration for a "naked" win32 using the microsoft runtime
3153libraries and raw winsocket select is:
3154
3155 #define EV_USE_SELECT 1
3156 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* forces EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET, too */
3157
3158Note that winsockets handling of fd sets is O(n), so you can easily get a
3159complexity in the O(n²) range when using win32.
3160
3161=item Limited number of file descriptors
3162
3163Windows has numerous arbitrary (and low) limits on things. Early versions
3164of winsocket's select only supported waiting for a max. of C<64> handles
3165(probably owning to the fact that all windows kernels can only wait for
3166C<64> things at the same time internally; microsoft recommends spawning a
3167chain of threads and wait for 63 handles and the previous thread in each).
3168
3169Newer versions support more handles, but you need to define C<FD_SETSIZE>
3170to some high number (e.g. C<2048>) before compiling the winsocket select
3171call (which might be in libev or elsewhere, for example, perl does its own
3172select emulation on windows).
3173
3174Another limit is the number of file descriptors in the microsoft runtime
3175libraries, which by default is C<64> (there must be a hidden I<64> fetish
3176or something like this inside microsoft). You can increase this by calling
3177C<_setmaxstdio>, which can increase this limit to C<2048> (another
3178arbitrary limit), but is broken in many versions of the microsoft runtime
3179libraries.
3180
3181This might get you to about C<512> or C<2048> sockets (depending on
3182windows version and/or the phase of the moon). To get more, you need to
3183wrap all I/O functions and provide your own fd management, but the cost of
3184calling select (O(n²)) will likely make this unworkable.
3185
3186=back
3187
3188
2216=head1 AUTHOR 3189=head1 AUTHOR
2217 3190
2218Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>. 3191Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>.
2219 3192

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