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4 4
5=head1 SYNOPSIS 5=head1 SYNOPSIS
6 6
7 #include <ev.h> 7 #include <ev.h>
8 8
9=head1 EXAMPLE PROGRAM
10
11 #include <ev.h>
12
13 ev_io stdin_watcher;
14 ev_timer timeout_watcher;
15
16 /* called when data readable on stdin */
17 static void
18 stdin_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_io *w, int revents)
19 {
20 /* puts ("stdin ready"); */
21 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w); /* just a syntax example */
22 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ALL); /* leave all loop calls */
23 }
24
25 static void
26 timeout_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
27 {
28 /* puts ("timeout"); */
29 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ONE); /* leave one loop call */
30 }
31
32 int
33 main (void)
34 {
35 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0);
36
37 /* initialise an io watcher, then start it */
38 ev_io_init (&stdin_watcher, stdin_cb, /*STDIN_FILENO*/ 0, EV_READ);
39 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher);
40
41 /* simple non-repeating 5.5 second timeout */
42 ev_timer_init (&timeout_watcher, timeout_cb, 5.5, 0.);
43 ev_timer_start (loop, &timeout_watcher);
44
45 /* loop till timeout or data ready */
46 ev_loop (loop, 0);
47
48 return 0;
49 }
50
9=head1 DESCRIPTION 51=head1 DESCRIPTION
52
53The newest version of this document is also available as a html-formatted
54web page you might find easier to navigate when reading it for the first
55time: L<http://cvs.schmorp.de/libev/ev.html>.
10 56
11Libev is an event loop: you register interest in certain events (such as a 57Libev is an event loop: you register interest in certain events (such as a
12file descriptor being readable or a timeout occuring), and it will manage 58file descriptor being readable or a timeout occuring), and it will manage
13these event sources and provide your program with events. 59these event sources and provide your program with events.
14 60
21details of the event, and then hand it over to libev by I<starting> the 67details of the event, and then hand it over to libev by I<starting> the
22watcher. 68watcher.
23 69
24=head1 FEATURES 70=head1 FEATURES
25 71
26Libev supports select, poll, the linux-specific epoll and the bsd-specific 72Libev supports C<select>, C<poll>, the Linux-specific C<epoll>, the
27kqueue mechanisms for file descriptor events, relative timers, absolute 73BSD-specific C<kqueue> and the Solaris-specific event port mechanisms
28timers with customised rescheduling, signal events, process status change 74for file descriptor events (C<ev_io>), the Linux C<inotify> interface
29events (related to SIGCHLD), and event watchers dealing with the event 75(for C<ev_stat>), relative timers (C<ev_timer>), absolute timers
30loop mechanism itself (idle, prepare and check watchers). It also is quite 76with customised rescheduling (C<ev_periodic>), synchronous signals
77(C<ev_signal>), process status change events (C<ev_child>), and event
78watchers dealing with the event loop mechanism itself (C<ev_idle>,
79C<ev_embed>, C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> watchers) as well as
80file watchers (C<ev_stat>) and even limited support for fork events
81(C<ev_fork>).
82
83It also is quite fast (see this
31fast (see this L<benchmark|http://libev.schmorp.de/bench.html> comparing 84L<benchmark|http://libev.schmorp.de/bench.html> comparing it to libevent
32it to libevent for example). 85for example).
33 86
34=head1 CONVENTIONS 87=head1 CONVENTIONS
35 88
36Libev is very configurable. In this manual the default configuration 89Libev is very configurable. In this manual the default configuration will
37will be described, which supports multiple event loops. For more info 90be described, which supports multiple event loops. For more info about
38about various configuration options please have a look at the file 91various configuration options please have a look at B<EMBED> section in
39F<README.embed> in the libev distribution. If libev was configured without 92this manual. If libev was configured without support for multiple event
40support for multiple event loops, then all functions taking an initial 93loops, then all functions taking an initial argument of name C<loop>
41argument of name C<loop> (which is always of type C<struct ev_loop *>) 94(which is always of type C<struct ev_loop *>) will not have this argument.
42will not have this argument.
43 95
44=head1 TIME REPRESENTATION 96=head1 TIME REPRESENTATION
45 97
46Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing the 98Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing the
47(fractional) number of seconds since the (POSIX) epoch (somewhere near 99(fractional) number of seconds since the (POSIX) epoch (somewhere near
48the beginning of 1970, details are complicated, don't ask). This type is 100the beginning of 1970, details are complicated, don't ask). This type is
49called C<ev_tstamp>, which is what you should use too. It usually aliases 101called C<ev_tstamp>, which is what you should use too. It usually aliases
50to the C<double> type in C, and when you need to do any calculations on 102to the C<double> type in C, and when you need to do any calculations on
51it, you should treat it as such. 103it, you should treat it as such.
52 104
53
54=head1 GLOBAL FUNCTIONS 105=head1 GLOBAL FUNCTIONS
55 106
56These functions can be called anytime, even before initialising the 107These functions can be called anytime, even before initialising the
57library in any way. 108library in any way.
58 109
77Usually, it's a good idea to terminate if the major versions mismatch, 128Usually, it's a good idea to terminate if the major versions mismatch,
78as this indicates an incompatible change. Minor versions are usually 129as this indicates an incompatible change. Minor versions are usually
79compatible to older versions, so a larger minor version alone is usually 130compatible to older versions, so a larger minor version alone is usually
80not a problem. 131not a problem.
81 132
82Example: make sure we haven't accidentally been linked against the wrong 133Example: Make sure we haven't accidentally been linked against the wrong
83version: 134version.
84 135
85 assert (("libev version mismatch", 136 assert (("libev version mismatch",
86 ev_version_major () == EV_VERSION_MAJOR 137 ev_version_major () == EV_VERSION_MAJOR
87 && ev_version_minor () >= EV_VERSION_MINOR)); 138 && ev_version_minor () >= EV_VERSION_MINOR));
88 139
118 169
119See the description of C<ev_embed> watchers for more info. 170See the description of C<ev_embed> watchers for more info.
120 171
121=item ev_set_allocator (void *(*cb)(void *ptr, long size)) 172=item ev_set_allocator (void *(*cb)(void *ptr, long size))
122 173
123Sets the allocation function to use (the prototype is similar to the 174Sets the allocation function to use (the prototype is similar - the
124realloc C function, the semantics are identical). It is used to allocate 175semantics is identical - to the realloc C function). It is used to
125and free memory (no surprises here). If it returns zero when memory 176allocate and free memory (no surprises here). If it returns zero when
126needs to be allocated, the library might abort or take some potentially 177memory needs to be allocated, the library might abort or take some
127destructive action. The default is your system realloc function. 178potentially destructive action. The default is your system realloc
179function.
128 180
129You could override this function in high-availability programs to, say, 181You could override this function in high-availability programs to, say,
130free some memory if it cannot allocate memory, to use a special allocator, 182free some memory if it cannot allocate memory, to use a special allocator,
131or even to sleep a while and retry until some memory is available. 183or even to sleep a while and retry until some memory is available.
132 184
133Example: replace the libev allocator with one that waits a bit and then 185Example: Replace the libev allocator with one that waits a bit and then
134retries: better than mine). 186retries).
135 187
136 static void * 188 static void *
137 persistent_realloc (void *ptr, long size) 189 persistent_realloc (void *ptr, size_t size)
138 { 190 {
139 for (;;) 191 for (;;)
140 { 192 {
141 void *newptr = realloc (ptr, size); 193 void *newptr = realloc (ptr, size);
142 194
158callback is set, then libev will expect it to remedy the sitution, no 210callback is set, then libev will expect it to remedy the sitution, no
159matter what, when it returns. That is, libev will generally retry the 211matter what, when it returns. That is, libev will generally retry the
160requested operation, or, if the condition doesn't go away, do bad stuff 212requested operation, or, if the condition doesn't go away, do bad stuff
161(such as abort). 213(such as abort).
162 214
163Example: do the same thing as libev does internally: 215Example: This is basically the same thing that libev does internally, too.
164 216
165 static void 217 static void
166 fatal_error (const char *msg) 218 fatal_error (const char *msg)
167 { 219 {
168 perror (msg); 220 perror (msg);
218C<LIBEV_FLAGS>. Otherwise (the default), this environment variable will 270C<LIBEV_FLAGS>. Otherwise (the default), this environment variable will
219override the flags completely if it is found in the environment. This is 271override the flags completely if it is found in the environment. This is
220useful to try out specific backends to test their performance, or to work 272useful to try out specific backends to test their performance, or to work
221around bugs. 273around bugs.
222 274
275=item C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>
276
277Instead of calling C<ev_default_fork> or C<ev_loop_fork> manually after
278a fork, you can also make libev check for a fork in each iteration by
279enabling this flag.
280
281This works by calling C<getpid ()> on every iteration of the loop,
282and thus this might slow down your event loop if you do a lot of loop
283iterations and little real work, but is usually not noticeable (on my
284Linux system for example, C<getpid> is actually a simple 5-insn sequence
285without a syscall and thus I<very> fast, but my Linux system also has
286C<pthread_atfork> which is even faster).
287
288The big advantage of this flag is that you can forget about fork (and
289forget about forgetting to tell libev about forking) when you use this
290flag.
291
292This flag setting cannot be overriden or specified in the C<LIBEV_FLAGS>
293environment variable.
294
223=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend) 295=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend)
224 296
225This is your standard select(2) backend. Not I<completely> standard, as 297This is your standard select(2) backend. Not I<completely> standard, as
226libev tries to roll its own fd_set with no limits on the number of fds, 298libev tries to roll its own fd_set with no limits on the number of fds,
227but if that fails, expect a fairly low limit on the number of fds when 299but if that fails, expect a fairly low limit on the number of fds when
314Similar to C<ev_default_loop>, but always creates a new event loop that is 386Similar to C<ev_default_loop>, but always creates a new event loop that is
315always distinct from the default loop. Unlike the default loop, it cannot 387always distinct from the default loop. Unlike the default loop, it cannot
316handle signal and child watchers, and attempts to do so will be greeted by 388handle signal and child watchers, and attempts to do so will be greeted by
317undefined behaviour (or a failed assertion if assertions are enabled). 389undefined behaviour (or a failed assertion if assertions are enabled).
318 390
319Example: try to create a event loop that uses epoll and nothing else. 391Example: Try to create a event loop that uses epoll and nothing else.
320 392
321 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV); 393 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV);
322 if (!epoller) 394 if (!epoller)
323 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair"); 395 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair");
324 396
361=item ev_loop_fork (loop) 433=item ev_loop_fork (loop)
362 434
363Like C<ev_default_fork>, but acts on an event loop created by 435Like C<ev_default_fork>, but acts on an event loop created by
364C<ev_loop_new>. Yes, you have to call this on every allocated event loop 436C<ev_loop_new>. Yes, you have to call this on every allocated event loop
365after fork, and how you do this is entirely your own problem. 437after fork, and how you do this is entirely your own problem.
438
439=item unsigned int ev_loop_count (loop)
440
441Returns the count of loop iterations for the loop, which is identical to
442the number of times libev did poll for new events. It starts at C<0> and
443happily wraps around with enough iterations.
444
445This value can sometimes be useful as a generation counter of sorts (it
446"ticks" the number of loop iterations), as it roughly corresponds with
447C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> calls.
366 448
367=item unsigned int ev_backend (loop) 449=item unsigned int ev_backend (loop)
368 450
369Returns one of the C<EVBACKEND_*> flags indicating the event backend in 451Returns one of the C<EVBACKEND_*> flags indicating the event backend in
370use. 452use.
423 Signals and child watchers are implemented as I/O watchers, and will 505 Signals and child watchers are implemented as I/O watchers, and will
424 be handled here by queueing them when their watcher gets executed. 506 be handled here by queueing them when their watcher gets executed.
425 - If ev_unloop has been called or EVLOOP_ONESHOT or EVLOOP_NONBLOCK 507 - If ev_unloop has been called or EVLOOP_ONESHOT or EVLOOP_NONBLOCK
426 were used, return, otherwise continue with step *. 508 were used, return, otherwise continue with step *.
427 509
428Example: queue some jobs and then loop until no events are outsanding 510Example: Queue some jobs and then loop until no events are outsanding
429anymore. 511anymore.
430 512
431 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long 513 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long
432 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..) 514 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..)
433 ev_loop (my_loop, 0); 515 ev_loop (my_loop, 0);
453visible to the libev user and should not keep C<ev_loop> from exiting if 535visible to the libev user and should not keep C<ev_loop> from exiting if
454no event watchers registered by it are active. It is also an excellent 536no event watchers registered by it are active. It is also an excellent
455way to do this for generic recurring timers or from within third-party 537way to do this for generic recurring timers or from within third-party
456libraries. Just remember to I<unref after start> and I<ref before stop>. 538libraries. Just remember to I<unref after start> and I<ref before stop>.
457 539
458Example: create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_loop> 540Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_loop>
459running when nothing else is active. 541running when nothing else is active.
460 542
461 struct dv_signal exitsig; 543 struct ev_signal exitsig;
462 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT); 544 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT);
463 ev_signal_start (myloop, &exitsig); 545 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig);
464 evf_unref (myloop); 546 evf_unref (loop);
465 547
466Example: for some weird reason, unregister the above signal handler again. 548Example: For some weird reason, unregister the above signal handler again.
467 549
468 ev_ref (myloop); 550 ev_ref (loop);
469 ev_signal_stop (myloop, &exitsig); 551 ev_signal_stop (loop, &exitsig);
470 552
471=back 553=back
472 554
473 555
474=head1 ANATOMY OF A WATCHER 556=head1 ANATOMY OF A WATCHER
565received events. Callbacks of both watcher types can start and stop as 647received events. Callbacks of both watcher types can start and stop as
566many watchers as they want, and all of them will be taken into account 648many watchers as they want, and all of them will be taken into account
567(for example, a C<ev_prepare> watcher might start an idle watcher to keep 649(for example, a C<ev_prepare> watcher might start an idle watcher to keep
568C<ev_loop> from blocking). 650C<ev_loop> from blocking).
569 651
652=item C<EV_EMBED>
653
654The embedded event loop specified in the C<ev_embed> watcher needs attention.
655
656=item C<EV_FORK>
657
658The event loop has been resumed in the child process after fork (see
659C<ev_fork>).
660
570=item C<EV_ERROR> 661=item C<EV_ERROR>
571 662
572An unspecified error has occured, the watcher has been stopped. This might 663An unspecified error has occured, the watcher has been stopped. This might
573happen because the watcher could not be properly started because libev 664happen because the watcher could not be properly started because libev
574ran out of memory, a file descriptor was found to be closed or any other 665ran out of memory, a file descriptor was found to be closed or any other
645=item bool ev_is_pending (ev_TYPE *watcher) 736=item bool ev_is_pending (ev_TYPE *watcher)
646 737
647Returns a true value iff the watcher is pending, (i.e. it has outstanding 738Returns a true value iff the watcher is pending, (i.e. it has outstanding
648events but its callback has not yet been invoked). As long as a watcher 739events but its callback has not yet been invoked). As long as a watcher
649is pending (but not active) you must not call an init function on it (but 740is pending (but not active) you must not call an init function on it (but
650C<ev_TYPE_set> is safe) and you must make sure the watcher is available to 741C<ev_TYPE_set> is safe), you must not change its priority, and you must
651libev (e.g. you cnanot C<free ()> it). 742make sure the watcher is available to libev (e.g. you cannot C<free ()>
743it).
652 744
653=item callback = ev_cb (ev_TYPE *watcher) 745=item callback ev_cb (ev_TYPE *watcher)
654 746
655Returns the callback currently set on the watcher. 747Returns the callback currently set on the watcher.
656 748
657=item ev_cb_set (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback) 749=item ev_cb_set (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback)
658 750
659Change the callback. You can change the callback at virtually any time 751Change the callback. You can change the callback at virtually any time
660(modulo threads). 752(modulo threads).
753
754=item ev_set_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher, priority)
755
756=item int ev_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher)
757
758Set and query the priority of the watcher. The priority is a small
759integer between C<EV_MAXPRI> (default: C<2>) and C<EV_MINPRI>
760(default: C<-2>). Pending watchers with higher priority will be invoked
761before watchers with lower priority, but priority will not keep watchers
762from being executed (except for C<ev_idle> watchers).
763
764This means that priorities are I<only> used for ordering callback
765invocation after new events have been received. This is useful, for
766example, to reduce latency after idling, or more often, to bind two
767watchers on the same event and make sure one is called first.
768
769If you need to suppress invocation when higher priority events are pending
770you need to look at C<ev_idle> watchers, which provide this functionality.
771
772You I<must not> change the priority of a watcher as long as it is active or
773pending.
774
775The default priority used by watchers when no priority has been set is
776always C<0>, which is supposed to not be too high and not be too low :).
777
778Setting a priority outside the range of C<EV_MINPRI> to C<EV_MAXPRI> is
779fine, as long as you do not mind that the priority value you query might
780or might not have been adjusted to be within valid range.
781
782=item ev_invoke (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher, int revents)
783
784Invoke the C<watcher> with the given C<loop> and C<revents>. Neither
785C<loop> nor C<revents> need to be valid as long as the watcher callback
786can deal with that fact.
787
788=item int ev_clear_pending (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher)
789
790If the watcher is pending, this function returns clears its pending status
791and returns its C<revents> bitset (as if its callback was invoked). If the
792watcher isn't pending it does nothing and returns C<0>.
661 793
662=back 794=back
663 795
664 796
665=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER 797=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER
686 { 818 {
687 struct my_io *w = (struct my_io *)w_; 819 struct my_io *w = (struct my_io *)w_;
688 ... 820 ...
689 } 821 }
690 822
691More interesting and less C-conformant ways of catsing your callback type 823More interesting and less C-conformant ways of casting your callback type
692have been omitted.... 824instead have been omitted.
825
826Another common scenario is having some data structure with multiple
827watchers:
828
829 struct my_biggy
830 {
831 int some_data;
832 ev_timer t1;
833 ev_timer t2;
834 }
835
836In this case getting the pointer to C<my_biggy> is a bit more complicated,
837you need to use C<offsetof>:
838
839 #include <stddef.h>
840
841 static void
842 t1_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
843 {
844 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *
845 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t1));
846 }
847
848 static void
849 t2_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
850 {
851 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *
852 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2));
853 }
693 854
694 855
695=head1 WATCHER TYPES 856=head1 WATCHER TYPES
696 857
697This section describes each watcher in detail, but will not repeat 858This section describes each watcher in detail, but will not repeat
742it is best to always use non-blocking I/O: An extra C<read>(2) returning 903it is best to always use non-blocking I/O: An extra C<read>(2) returning
743C<EAGAIN> is far preferable to a program hanging until some data arrives. 904C<EAGAIN> is far preferable to a program hanging until some data arrives.
744 905
745If you cannot run the fd in non-blocking mode (for example you should not 906If you cannot run the fd in non-blocking mode (for example you should not
746play around with an Xlib connection), then you have to seperately re-test 907play around with an Xlib connection), then you have to seperately re-test
747wether a file descriptor is really ready with a known-to-be good interface 908whether a file descriptor is really ready with a known-to-be good interface
748such as poll (fortunately in our Xlib example, Xlib already does this on 909such as poll (fortunately in our Xlib example, Xlib already does this on
749its own, so its quite safe to use). 910its own, so its quite safe to use).
750 911
751=over 4 912=over 4
752 913
766 927
767The events being watched. 928The events being watched.
768 929
769=back 930=back
770 931
771Example: call C<stdin_readable_cb> when STDIN_FILENO has become, well 932Example: Call C<stdin_readable_cb> when STDIN_FILENO has become, well
772readable, but only once. Since it is likely line-buffered, you could 933readable, but only once. Since it is likely line-buffered, you could
773attempt to read a whole line in the callback: 934attempt to read a whole line in the callback.
774 935
775 static void 936 static void
776 stdin_readable_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents) 937 stdin_readable_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents)
777 { 938 {
778 ev_io_stop (loop, w); 939 ev_io_stop (loop, w);
830=item ev_timer_again (loop) 991=item ev_timer_again (loop)
831 992
832This will act as if the timer timed out and restart it again if it is 993This will act as if the timer timed out and restart it again if it is
833repeating. The exact semantics are: 994repeating. The exact semantics are:
834 995
996If the timer is pending, its pending status is cleared.
997
835If the timer is started but nonrepeating, stop it. 998If the timer is started but nonrepeating, stop it (as if it timed out).
836 999
837If the timer is repeating, either start it if necessary (with the repeat 1000If the timer is repeating, either start it if necessary (with the
838value), or reset the running timer to the repeat value. 1001C<repeat> value), or reset the running timer to the C<repeat> value.
839 1002
840This sounds a bit complicated, but here is a useful and typical 1003This sounds a bit complicated, but here is a useful and typical
841example: Imagine you have a tcp connection and you want a so-called 1004example: Imagine you have a tcp connection and you want a so-called idle
842idle timeout, that is, you want to be called when there have been, 1005timeout, that is, you want to be called when there have been, say, 60
843say, 60 seconds of inactivity on the socket. The easiest way to do 1006seconds of inactivity on the socket. The easiest way to do this is to
844this is to configure an C<ev_timer> with C<after>=C<repeat>=C<60> and calling 1007configure an C<ev_timer> with a C<repeat> value of C<60> and then call
845C<ev_timer_again> each time you successfully read or write some data. If 1008C<ev_timer_again> each time you successfully read or write some data. If
846you go into an idle state where you do not expect data to travel on the 1009you go into an idle state where you do not expect data to travel on the
847socket, you can stop the timer, and again will automatically restart it if 1010socket, you can C<ev_timer_stop> the timer, and C<ev_timer_again> will
848need be. 1011automatically restart it if need be.
849 1012
850You can also ignore the C<after> value and C<ev_timer_start> altogether 1013That means you can ignore the C<after> value and C<ev_timer_start>
851and only ever use the C<repeat> value: 1014altogether and only ever use the C<repeat> value and C<ev_timer_again>:
852 1015
853 ev_timer_init (timer, callback, 0., 5.); 1016 ev_timer_init (timer, callback, 0., 5.);
854 ev_timer_again (loop, timer); 1017 ev_timer_again (loop, timer);
855 ... 1018 ...
856 timer->again = 17.; 1019 timer->again = 17.;
857 ev_timer_again (loop, timer); 1020 ev_timer_again (loop, timer);
858 ... 1021 ...
859 timer->again = 10.; 1022 timer->again = 10.;
860 ev_timer_again (loop, timer); 1023 ev_timer_again (loop, timer);
861 1024
862This is more efficient then stopping/starting the timer eahc time you want 1025This is more slightly efficient then stopping/starting the timer each time
863to modify its timeout value. 1026you want to modify its timeout value.
864 1027
865=item ev_tstamp repeat [read-write] 1028=item ev_tstamp repeat [read-write]
866 1029
867The current C<repeat> value. Will be used each time the watcher times out 1030The current C<repeat> value. Will be used each time the watcher times out
868or C<ev_timer_again> is called and determines the next timeout (if any), 1031or C<ev_timer_again> is called and determines the next timeout (if any),
869which is also when any modifications are taken into account. 1032which is also when any modifications are taken into account.
870 1033
871=back 1034=back
872 1035
873Example: create a timer that fires after 60 seconds. 1036Example: Create a timer that fires after 60 seconds.
874 1037
875 static void 1038 static void
876 one_minute_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 1039 one_minute_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
877 { 1040 {
878 .. one minute over, w is actually stopped right here 1041 .. one minute over, w is actually stopped right here
880 1043
881 struct ev_timer mytimer; 1044 struct ev_timer mytimer;
882 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, one_minute_cb, 60., 0.); 1045 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, one_minute_cb, 60., 0.);
883 ev_timer_start (loop, &mytimer); 1046 ev_timer_start (loop, &mytimer);
884 1047
885Example: create a timeout timer that times out after 10 seconds of 1048Example: Create a timeout timer that times out after 10 seconds of
886inactivity. 1049inactivity.
887 1050
888 static void 1051 static void
889 timeout_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 1052 timeout_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
890 { 1053 {
1015switched off. Can be changed any time, but changes only take effect when 1178switched off. Can be changed any time, but changes only take effect when
1016the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being called. 1179the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being called.
1017 1180
1018=back 1181=back
1019 1182
1020Example: call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the 1183Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the
1021system clock is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have 1184system clock is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have
1022potentially a lot of jittering, but good long-term stability. 1185potentially a lot of jittering, but good long-term stability.
1023 1186
1024 static void 1187 static void
1025 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents) 1188 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents)
1029 1192
1030 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick; 1193 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick;
1031 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 3600., 0); 1194 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 3600., 0);
1032 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick); 1195 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick);
1033 1196
1034Example: the same as above, but use a reschedule callback to do it: 1197Example: The same as above, but use a reschedule callback to do it:
1035 1198
1036 #include <math.h> 1199 #include <math.h>
1037 1200
1038 static ev_tstamp 1201 static ev_tstamp
1039 my_scheduler_cb (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now) 1202 my_scheduler_cb (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now)
1041 return fmod (now, 3600.) + 3600.; 1204 return fmod (now, 3600.) + 3600.;
1042 } 1205 }
1043 1206
1044 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 0., my_scheduler_cb); 1207 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 0., my_scheduler_cb);
1045 1208
1046Example: call a callback every hour, starting now: 1209Example: Call a callback every hour, starting now:
1047 1210
1048 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick; 1211 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick;
1049 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 1212 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb,
1050 fmod (ev_now (loop), 3600.), 3600., 0); 1213 fmod (ev_now (loop), 3600.), 3600., 0);
1051 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick); 1214 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick);
1112The process exit/trace status caused by C<rpid> (see your systems 1275The process exit/trace status caused by C<rpid> (see your systems
1113C<waitpid> and C<sys/wait.h> documentation for details). 1276C<waitpid> and C<sys/wait.h> documentation for details).
1114 1277
1115=back 1278=back
1116 1279
1117Example: try to exit cleanly on SIGINT and SIGTERM. 1280Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT and SIGTERM.
1118 1281
1119 static void 1282 static void
1120 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_signal *w, int revents) 1283 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_signal *w, int revents)
1121 { 1284 {
1122 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 1285 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL);
1137not exist" is a status change like any other. The condition "path does 1300not exist" is a status change like any other. The condition "path does
1138not exist" is signified by the C<st_nlink> field being zero (which is 1301not exist" is signified by the C<st_nlink> field being zero (which is
1139otherwise always forced to be at least one) and all the other fields of 1302otherwise always forced to be at least one) and all the other fields of
1140the stat buffer having unspecified contents. 1303the stat buffer having unspecified contents.
1141 1304
1305The path I<should> be absolute and I<must not> end in a slash. If it is
1306relative and your working directory changes, the behaviour is undefined.
1307
1142Since there is no standard to do this, the portable implementation simply 1308Since there is no standard to do this, the portable implementation simply
1143calls C<stat (2)> regulalry on the path to see if it changed somehow. You 1309calls C<stat (2)> regularly on the path to see if it changed somehow. You
1144can specify a recommended polling interval for this case. If you specify 1310can specify a recommended polling interval for this case. If you specify
1145a polling interval of C<0> (highly recommended!) then a I<suitable, 1311a polling interval of C<0> (highly recommended!) then a I<suitable,
1146unspecified default> value will be used (which you can expect to be around 1312unspecified default> value will be used (which you can expect to be around
1147five seconds, although this might change dynamically). Libev will also 1313five seconds, although this might change dynamically). Libev will also
1148impose a minimum interval which is currently around C<0.1>, but thats 1314impose a minimum interval which is currently around C<0.1>, but thats
1150 1316
1151This watcher type is not meant for massive numbers of stat watchers, 1317This watcher type is not meant for massive numbers of stat watchers,
1152as even with OS-supported change notifications, this can be 1318as even with OS-supported change notifications, this can be
1153resource-intensive. 1319resource-intensive.
1154 1320
1155At the time of this writing, no specific OS backends are implemented, but 1321At the time of this writing, only the Linux inotify interface is
1156if demand increases, at least a kqueue and inotify backend will be added. 1322implemented (implementing kqueue support is left as an exercise for the
1323reader). Inotify will be used to give hints only and should not change the
1324semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers, which means that libev sometimes needs
1325to fall back to regular polling again even with inotify, but changes are
1326usually detected immediately, and if the file exists there will be no
1327polling.
1157 1328
1158=over 4 1329=over 4
1159 1330
1160=item ev_stat_init (ev_stat *, callback, const char *path, ev_tstamp interval) 1331=item ev_stat_init (ev_stat *, callback, const char *path, ev_tstamp interval)
1161 1332
1225 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd); 1396 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd);
1226 1397
1227 1398
1228=head2 C<ev_idle> - when you've got nothing better to do... 1399=head2 C<ev_idle> - when you've got nothing better to do...
1229 1400
1230Idle watchers trigger events when there are no other events are pending 1401Idle watchers trigger events when no other events of the same or higher
1231(prepare, check and other idle watchers do not count). That is, as long 1402priority are pending (prepare, check and other idle watchers do not
1232as your process is busy handling sockets or timeouts (or even signals, 1403count).
1233imagine) it will not be triggered. But when your process is idle all idle 1404
1234watchers are being called again and again, once per event loop iteration - 1405That is, as long as your process is busy handling sockets or timeouts
1406(or even signals, imagine) of the same or higher priority it will not be
1407triggered. But when your process is idle (or only lower-priority watchers
1408are pending), the idle watchers are being called once per event loop
1235until stopped, that is, or your process receives more events and becomes 1409iteration - until stopped, that is, or your process receives more events
1236busy. 1410and becomes busy again with higher priority stuff.
1237 1411
1238The most noteworthy effect is that as long as any idle watchers are 1412The most noteworthy effect is that as long as any idle watchers are
1239active, the process will not block when waiting for new events. 1413active, the process will not block when waiting for new events.
1240 1414
1241Apart from keeping your process non-blocking (which is a useful 1415Apart from keeping your process non-blocking (which is a useful
1251kind. There is a C<ev_idle_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless, 1425kind. There is a C<ev_idle_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless,
1252believe me. 1426believe me.
1253 1427
1254=back 1428=back
1255 1429
1256Example: dynamically allocate an C<ev_idle>, start it, and in the 1430Example: Dynamically allocate an C<ev_idle> watcher, start it, and in the
1257callback, free it. Alos, use no error checking, as usual. 1431callback, free it. Also, use no error checking, as usual.
1258 1432
1259 static void 1433 static void
1260 idle_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_idle *w, int revents) 1434 idle_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_idle *w, int revents)
1261 { 1435 {
1262 free (w); 1436 free (w);
1319parameters of any kind. There are C<ev_prepare_set> and C<ev_check_set> 1493parameters of any kind. There are C<ev_prepare_set> and C<ev_check_set>
1320macros, but using them is utterly, utterly and completely pointless. 1494macros, but using them is utterly, utterly and completely pointless.
1321 1495
1322=back 1496=back
1323 1497
1324Example: To include a library such as adns, you would add IO watchers 1498There are a number of principal ways to embed other event loops or modules
1325and a timeout watcher in a prepare handler, as required by libadns, and 1499into libev. Here are some ideas on how to include libadns into libev
1500(there is a Perl module named C<EV::ADNS> that does this, which you could
1501use for an actually working example. Another Perl module named C<EV::Glib>
1502embeds a Glib main context into libev, and finally, C<Glib::EV> embeds EV
1503into the Glib event loop).
1504
1505Method 1: Add IO watchers and a timeout watcher in a prepare handler,
1326in a check watcher, destroy them and call into libadns. What follows is 1506and in a check watcher, destroy them and call into libadns. What follows
1327pseudo-code only of course: 1507is pseudo-code only of course. This requires you to either use a low
1508priority for the check watcher or use C<ev_clear_pending> explicitly, as
1509the callbacks for the IO/timeout watchers might not have been called yet.
1328 1510
1329 static ev_io iow [nfd]; 1511 static ev_io iow [nfd];
1330 static ev_timer tw; 1512 static ev_timer tw;
1331 1513
1332 static void 1514 static void
1333 io_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents) 1515 io_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents)
1334 { 1516 {
1335 // set the relevant poll flags
1336 // could also call adns_processreadable etc. here
1337 struct pollfd *fd = (struct pollfd *)w->data;
1338 if (revents & EV_READ ) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLIN;
1339 if (revents & EV_WRITE) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLOUT;
1340 } 1517 }
1341 1518
1342 // create io watchers for each fd and a timer before blocking 1519 // create io watchers for each fd and a timer before blocking
1343 static void 1520 static void
1344 adns_prepare_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_prepare *w, int revents) 1521 adns_prepare_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_prepare *w, int revents)
1345 { 1522 {
1346 int timeout = 3600000;truct pollfd fds [nfd]; 1523 int timeout = 3600000;
1524 struct pollfd fds [nfd];
1347 // actual code will need to loop here and realloc etc. 1525 // actual code will need to loop here and realloc etc.
1348 adns_beforepoll (ads, fds, &nfd, &timeout, timeval_from (ev_time ())); 1526 adns_beforepoll (ads, fds, &nfd, &timeout, timeval_from (ev_time ()));
1349 1527
1350 /* the callback is illegal, but won't be called as we stop during check */ 1528 /* the callback is illegal, but won't be called as we stop during check */
1351 ev_timer_init (&tw, 0, timeout * 1e-3); 1529 ev_timer_init (&tw, 0, timeout * 1e-3);
1352 ev_timer_start (loop, &tw); 1530 ev_timer_start (loop, &tw);
1353 1531
1354 // create on ev_io per pollfd 1532 // create one ev_io per pollfd
1355 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i) 1533 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i)
1356 { 1534 {
1357 ev_io_init (iow + i, io_cb, fds [i].fd, 1535 ev_io_init (iow + i, io_cb, fds [i].fd,
1358 ((fds [i].events & POLLIN ? EV_READ : 0) 1536 ((fds [i].events & POLLIN ? EV_READ : 0)
1359 | (fds [i].events & POLLOUT ? EV_WRITE : 0))); 1537 | (fds [i].events & POLLOUT ? EV_WRITE : 0)));
1360 1538
1361 fds [i].revents = 0; 1539 fds [i].revents = 0;
1362 iow [i].data = fds + i;
1363 ev_io_start (loop, iow + i); 1540 ev_io_start (loop, iow + i);
1364 } 1541 }
1365 } 1542 }
1366 1543
1367 // stop all watchers after blocking 1544 // stop all watchers after blocking
1369 adns_check_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_check *w, int revents) 1546 adns_check_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_check *w, int revents)
1370 { 1547 {
1371 ev_timer_stop (loop, &tw); 1548 ev_timer_stop (loop, &tw);
1372 1549
1373 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i) 1550 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i)
1551 {
1552 // set the relevant poll flags
1553 // could also call adns_processreadable etc. here
1554 struct pollfd *fd = fds + i;
1555 int revents = ev_clear_pending (iow + i);
1556 if (revents & EV_READ ) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLIN;
1557 if (revents & EV_WRITE) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLOUT;
1558
1559 // now stop the watcher
1374 ev_io_stop (loop, iow + i); 1560 ev_io_stop (loop, iow + i);
1561 }
1375 1562
1376 adns_afterpoll (adns, fds, nfd, timeval_from (ev_now (loop)); 1563 adns_afterpoll (adns, fds, nfd, timeval_from (ev_now (loop));
1564 }
1565
1566Method 2: This would be just like method 1, but you run C<adns_afterpoll>
1567in the prepare watcher and would dispose of the check watcher.
1568
1569Method 3: If the module to be embedded supports explicit event
1570notification (adns does), you can also make use of the actual watcher
1571callbacks, and only destroy/create the watchers in the prepare watcher.
1572
1573 static void
1574 timer_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1575 {
1576 adns_state ads = (adns_state)w->data;
1577 update_now (EV_A);
1578
1579 adns_processtimeouts (ads, &tv_now);
1580 }
1581
1582 static void
1583 io_cb (EV_P_ ev_io *w, int revents)
1584 {
1585 adns_state ads = (adns_state)w->data;
1586 update_now (EV_A);
1587
1588 if (revents & EV_READ ) adns_processreadable (ads, w->fd, &tv_now);
1589 if (revents & EV_WRITE) adns_processwriteable (ads, w->fd, &tv_now);
1590 }
1591
1592 // do not ever call adns_afterpoll
1593
1594Method 4: Do not use a prepare or check watcher because the module you
1595want to embed is too inflexible to support it. Instead, youc na override
1596their poll function. The drawback with this solution is that the main
1597loop is now no longer controllable by EV. The C<Glib::EV> module does
1598this.
1599
1600 static gint
1601 event_poll_func (GPollFD *fds, guint nfds, gint timeout)
1602 {
1603 int got_events = 0;
1604
1605 for (n = 0; n < nfds; ++n)
1606 // create/start io watcher that sets the relevant bits in fds[n] and increment got_events
1607
1608 if (timeout >= 0)
1609 // create/start timer
1610
1611 // poll
1612 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0);
1613
1614 // stop timer again
1615 if (timeout >= 0)
1616 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &to);
1617
1618 // stop io watchers again - their callbacks should have set
1619 for (n = 0; n < nfds; ++n)
1620 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ iow [n]);
1621
1622 return got_events;
1377 } 1623 }
1378 1624
1379 1625
1380=head2 C<ev_embed> - when one backend isn't enough... 1626=head2 C<ev_embed> - when one backend isn't enough...
1381 1627
1470The embedded event loop. 1716The embedded event loop.
1471 1717
1472=back 1718=back
1473 1719
1474 1720
1721=head2 C<ev_fork> - the audacity to resume the event loop after a fork
1722
1723Fork watchers are called when a C<fork ()> was detected (usually because
1724whoever is a good citizen cared to tell libev about it by calling
1725C<ev_default_fork> or C<ev_loop_fork>). The invocation is done before the
1726event loop blocks next and before C<ev_check> watchers are being called,
1727and only in the child after the fork. If whoever good citizen calling
1728C<ev_default_fork> cheats and calls it in the wrong process, the fork
1729handlers will be invoked, too, of course.
1730
1731=over 4
1732
1733=item ev_fork_init (ev_signal *, callback)
1734
1735Initialises and configures the fork watcher - it has no parameters of any
1736kind. There is a C<ev_fork_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless,
1737believe me.
1738
1739=back
1740
1741
1475=head1 OTHER FUNCTIONS 1742=head1 OTHER FUNCTIONS
1476 1743
1477There are some other functions of possible interest. Described. Here. Now. 1744There are some other functions of possible interest. Described. Here. Now.
1478 1745
1479=over 4 1746=over 4
1564 1831
1565To use it, 1832To use it,
1566 1833
1567 #include <ev++.h> 1834 #include <ev++.h>
1568 1835
1569(it is not installed by default). This automatically includes F<ev.h> 1836This automatically includes F<ev.h> and puts all of its definitions (many
1570and puts all of its definitions (many of them macros) into the global 1837of them macros) into the global namespace. All C++ specific things are
1571namespace. All C++ specific things are put into the C<ev> namespace. 1838put into the C<ev> namespace. It should support all the same embedding
1839options as F<ev.h>, most notably C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>.
1572 1840
1573It should support all the same embedding options as F<ev.h>, most notably 1841Care has been taken to keep the overhead low. The only data member the C++
1574C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>. 1842classes add (compared to plain C-style watchers) is the event loop pointer
1843that the watcher is associated with (or no additional members at all if
1844you disable C<EV_MULTIPLICITY> when embedding libev).
1845
1846Currently, functions, and static and non-static member functions can be
1847used as callbacks. Other types should be easy to add as long as they only
1848need one additional pointer for context. If you need support for other
1849types of functors please contact the author (preferably after implementing
1850it).
1575 1851
1576Here is a list of things available in the C<ev> namespace: 1852Here is a list of things available in the C<ev> namespace:
1577 1853
1578=over 4 1854=over 4
1579 1855
1595 1871
1596All of those classes have these methods: 1872All of those classes have these methods:
1597 1873
1598=over 4 1874=over 4
1599 1875
1600=item ev::TYPE::TYPE (object *, object::method *) 1876=item ev::TYPE::TYPE ()
1601 1877
1602=item ev::TYPE::TYPE (object *, object::method *, struct ev_loop *) 1878=item ev::TYPE::TYPE (struct ev_loop *)
1603 1879
1604=item ev::TYPE::~TYPE 1880=item ev::TYPE::~TYPE
1605 1881
1606The constructor takes a pointer to an object and a method pointer to 1882The constructor (optionally) takes an event loop to associate the watcher
1607the event handler callback to call in this class. The constructor calls 1883with. If it is omitted, it will use C<EV_DEFAULT>.
1608C<ev_init> for you, which means you have to call the C<set> method 1884
1609before starting it. If you do not specify a loop then the constructor 1885The constructor calls C<ev_init> for you, which means you have to call the
1610automatically associates the default loop with this watcher. 1886C<set> method before starting it.
1887
1888It will not set a callback, however: You have to call the templated C<set>
1889method to set a callback before you can start the watcher.
1890
1891(The reason why you have to use a method is a limitation in C++ which does
1892not allow explicit template arguments for constructors).
1611 1893
1612The destructor automatically stops the watcher if it is active. 1894The destructor automatically stops the watcher if it is active.
1895
1896=item w->set<class, &class::method> (object *)
1897
1898This method sets the callback method to call. The method has to have a
1899signature of C<void (*)(ev_TYPE &, int)>, it receives the watcher as
1900first argument and the C<revents> as second. The object must be given as
1901parameter and is stored in the C<data> member of the watcher.
1902
1903This method synthesizes efficient thunking code to call your method from
1904the C callback that libev requires. If your compiler can inline your
1905callback (i.e. it is visible to it at the place of the C<set> call and
1906your compiler is good :), then the method will be fully inlined into the
1907thunking function, making it as fast as a direct C callback.
1908
1909Example: simple class declaration and watcher initialisation
1910
1911 struct myclass
1912 {
1913 void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { }
1914 }
1915
1916 myclass obj;
1917 ev::io iow;
1918 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj);
1919
1920=item w->set<function> (void *data = 0)
1921
1922Also sets a callback, but uses a static method or plain function as
1923callback. The optional C<data> argument will be stored in the watcher's
1924C<data> member and is free for you to use.
1925
1926The prototype of the C<function> must be C<void (*)(ev::TYPE &w, int)>.
1927
1928See the method-C<set> above for more details.
1929
1930Example:
1931
1932 static void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { }
1933 iow.set <io_cb> ();
1613 1934
1614=item w->set (struct ev_loop *) 1935=item w->set (struct ev_loop *)
1615 1936
1616Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only 1937Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only
1617do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either). 1938do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either).
1618 1939
1619=item w->set ([args]) 1940=item w->set ([args])
1620 1941
1621Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same args. Must be 1942Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same args. Must be
1622called at least once. Unlike the C counterpart, an active watcher gets 1943called at least once. Unlike the C counterpart, an active watcher gets
1623automatically stopped and restarted. 1944automatically stopped and restarted when reconfiguring it with this
1945method.
1624 1946
1625=item w->start () 1947=item w->start ()
1626 1948
1627Starts the watcher. Note that there is no C<loop> argument as the 1949Starts the watcher. Note that there is no C<loop> argument, as the
1628constructor already takes the loop. 1950constructor already stores the event loop.
1629 1951
1630=item w->stop () 1952=item w->stop ()
1631 1953
1632Stops the watcher if it is active. Again, no C<loop> argument. 1954Stops the watcher if it is active. Again, no C<loop> argument.
1633 1955
1638 1960
1639=item w->sweep () C<ev::embed> only 1961=item w->sweep () C<ev::embed> only
1640 1962
1641Invokes C<ev_embed_sweep>. 1963Invokes C<ev_embed_sweep>.
1642 1964
1965=item w->update () C<ev::stat> only
1966
1967Invokes C<ev_stat_stat>.
1968
1643=back 1969=back
1644 1970
1645=back 1971=back
1646 1972
1647Example: Define a class with an IO and idle watcher, start one of them in 1973Example: Define a class with an IO and idle watcher, start one of them in
1654 1980
1655 myclass (); 1981 myclass ();
1656 } 1982 }
1657 1983
1658 myclass::myclass (int fd) 1984 myclass::myclass (int fd)
1659 : io (this, &myclass::io_cb),
1660 idle (this, &myclass::idle_cb)
1661 { 1985 {
1986 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this);
1987 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this);
1988
1662 io.start (fd, ev::READ); 1989 io.start (fd, ev::READ);
1663 } 1990 }
1991
1992
1993=head1 MACRO MAGIC
1994
1995Libev can be compiled with a variety of options, the most fundemantal is
1996C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>. This option determines whether (most) functions and
1997callbacks have an initial C<struct ev_loop *> argument.
1998
1999To make it easier to write programs that cope with either variant, the
2000following macros are defined:
2001
2002=over 4
2003
2004=item C<EV_A>, C<EV_A_>
2005
2006This provides the loop I<argument> for functions, if one is required ("ev
2007loop argument"). The C<EV_A> form is used when this is the sole argument,
2008C<EV_A_> is used when other arguments are following. Example:
2009
2010 ev_unref (EV_A);
2011 ev_timer_add (EV_A_ watcher);
2012 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0);
2013
2014It assumes the variable C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *> is in scope,
2015which is often provided by the following macro.
2016
2017=item C<EV_P>, C<EV_P_>
2018
2019This provides the loop I<parameter> for functions, if one is required ("ev
2020loop parameter"). The C<EV_P> form is used when this is the sole parameter,
2021C<EV_P_> is used when other parameters are following. Example:
2022
2023 // this is how ev_unref is being declared
2024 static void ev_unref (EV_P);
2025
2026 // this is how you can declare your typical callback
2027 static void cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
2028
2029It declares a parameter C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *>, quite
2030suitable for use with C<EV_A>.
2031
2032=item C<EV_DEFAULT>, C<EV_DEFAULT_>
2033
2034Similar to the other two macros, this gives you the value of the default
2035loop, if multiple loops are supported ("ev loop default").
2036
2037=back
2038
2039Example: Declare and initialise a check watcher, utilising the above
2040macros so it will work regardless of whether multiple loops are supported
2041or not.
2042
2043 static void
2044 check_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
2045 {
2046 ev_check_stop (EV_A_ w);
2047 }
2048
2049 ev_check check;
2050 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb);
2051 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check);
2052 ev_loop (EV_DEFAULT_ 0);
1664 2053
1665=head1 EMBEDDING 2054=head1 EMBEDDING
1666 2055
1667Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host 2056Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host
1668applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra 2057applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra
1708 ev_vars.h 2097 ev_vars.h
1709 ev_wrap.h 2098 ev_wrap.h
1710 2099
1711 ev_win32.c required on win32 platforms only 2100 ev_win32.c required on win32 platforms only
1712 2101
1713 ev_select.c only when select backend is enabled (which is by default) 2102 ev_select.c only when select backend is enabled (which is enabled by default)
1714 ev_poll.c only when poll backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2103 ev_poll.c only when poll backend is enabled (disabled by default)
1715 ev_epoll.c only when the epoll backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2104 ev_epoll.c only when the epoll backend is enabled (disabled by default)
1716 ev_kqueue.c only when the kqueue backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2105 ev_kqueue.c only when the kqueue backend is enabled (disabled by default)
1717 ev_port.c only when the solaris port backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2106 ev_port.c only when the solaris port backend is enabled (disabled by default)
1718 2107
1843 2232
1844=item EV_USE_DEVPOLL 2233=item EV_USE_DEVPOLL
1845 2234
1846reserved for future expansion, works like the USE symbols above. 2235reserved for future expansion, works like the USE symbols above.
1847 2236
2237=item EV_USE_INOTIFY
2238
2239If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux inotify
2240interface to speed up C<ev_stat> watchers. Its actual availability will
2241be detected at runtime.
2242
1848=item EV_H 2243=item EV_H
1849 2244
1850The name of the F<ev.h> header file used to include it. The default if 2245The name of the F<ev.h> header file used to include it. The default if
1851undefined is C<< <ev.h> >> in F<event.h> and C<"ev.h"> in F<ev.c>. This 2246undefined is C<< <ev.h> >> in F<event.h> and C<"ev.h"> in F<ev.c>. This
1852can be used to virtually rename the F<ev.h> header file in case of conflicts. 2247can be used to virtually rename the F<ev.h> header file in case of conflicts.
1875will have the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument, and you can create 2270will have the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument, and you can create
1876additional independent event loops. Otherwise there will be no support 2271additional independent event loops. Otherwise there will be no support
1877for multiple event loops and there is no first event loop pointer 2272for multiple event loops and there is no first event loop pointer
1878argument. Instead, all functions act on the single default loop. 2273argument. Instead, all functions act on the single default loop.
1879 2274
2275=item EV_MINPRI
2276
2277=item EV_MAXPRI
2278
2279The range of allowed priorities. C<EV_MINPRI> must be smaller or equal to
2280C<EV_MAXPRI>, but otherwise there are no non-obvious limitations. You can
2281provide for more priorities by overriding those symbols (usually defined
2282to be C<-2> and C<2>, respectively).
2283
2284When doing priority-based operations, libev usually has to linearly search
2285all the priorities, so having many of them (hundreds) uses a lot of space
2286and time, so using the defaults of five priorities (-2 .. +2) is usually
2287fine.
2288
2289If your embedding app does not need any priorities, defining these both to
2290C<0> will save some memory and cpu.
2291
1880=item EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 2292=item EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE
1881 2293
1882If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then periodic timers are supported. If 2294If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then periodic timers are supported. If
1883defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of 2295defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of
1884code. 2296code.
1885 2297
2298=item EV_IDLE_ENABLE
2299
2300If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then idle watchers are supported. If
2301defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of
2302code.
2303
1886=item EV_EMBED_ENABLE 2304=item EV_EMBED_ENABLE
1887 2305
1888If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then embed watchers are supported. If 2306If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then embed watchers are supported. If
1889defined to be C<0>, then they are not. 2307defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
1890 2308
1891=item EV_STAT_ENABLE 2309=item EV_STAT_ENABLE
1892 2310
1893If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then stat watchers are supported. If 2311If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then stat watchers are supported. If
2312defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
2313
2314=item EV_FORK_ENABLE
2315
2316If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then fork watchers are supported. If
1894defined to be C<0>, then they are not. 2317defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
1895 2318
1896=item EV_MINIMAL 2319=item EV_MINIMAL
1897 2320
1898If you need to shave off some kilobytes of code at the expense of some 2321If you need to shave off some kilobytes of code at the expense of some
1899speed, define this symbol to C<1>. Currently only used for gcc to override 2322speed, define this symbol to C<1>. Currently only used for gcc to override
1900some inlining decisions, saves roughly 30% codesize of amd64. 2323some inlining decisions, saves roughly 30% codesize of amd64.
2324
2325=item EV_PID_HASHSIZE
2326
2327C<ev_child> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by
2328pid. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>), usually more
2329than enough. If you need to manage thousands of children you might want to
2330increase this value (I<must> be a power of two).
2331
2332=item EV_INOTIFY_HASHSIZE
2333
2334C<ev_staz> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by
2335inotify watch id. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>),
2336usually more than enough. If you need to manage thousands of C<ev_stat>
2337watchers you might want to increase this value (I<must> be a power of
2338two).
1901 2339
1902=item EV_COMMON 2340=item EV_COMMON
1903 2341
1904By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining 2342By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining
1905this macro to a something else you can include more and other types of 2343this macro to a something else you can include more and other types of
1934interface) and F<EV.xs> (implementation) files. Only the F<EV.xs> file 2372interface) and F<EV.xs> (implementation) files. Only the F<EV.xs> file
1935will be compiled. It is pretty complex because it provides its own header 2373will be compiled. It is pretty complex because it provides its own header
1936file. 2374file.
1937 2375
1938The usage in rxvt-unicode is simpler. It has a F<ev_cpp.h> header file 2376The usage in rxvt-unicode is simpler. It has a F<ev_cpp.h> header file
1939that everybody includes and which overrides some autoconf choices: 2377that everybody includes and which overrides some configure choices:
1940 2378
2379 #define EV_MINIMAL 1
1941 #define EV_USE_POLL 0 2380 #define EV_USE_POLL 0
1942 #define EV_MULTIPLICITY 0 2381 #define EV_MULTIPLICITY 0
1943 #define EV_PERIODICS 0 2382 #define EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 0
2383 #define EV_STAT_ENABLE 0
2384 #define EV_FORK_ENABLE 0
1944 #define EV_CONFIG_H <config.h> 2385 #define EV_CONFIG_H <config.h>
2386 #define EV_MINPRI 0
2387 #define EV_MAXPRI 0
1945 2388
1946 #include "ev++.h" 2389 #include "ev++.h"
1947 2390
1948And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled: 2391And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled:
1949 2392
1955 2398
1956In this section the complexities of (many of) the algorithms used inside 2399In this section the complexities of (many of) the algorithms used inside
1957libev will be explained. For complexity discussions about backends see the 2400libev will be explained. For complexity discussions about backends see the
1958documentation for C<ev_default_init>. 2401documentation for C<ev_default_init>.
1959 2402
2403All of the following are about amortised time: If an array needs to be
2404extended, libev needs to realloc and move the whole array, but this
2405happens asymptotically never with higher number of elements, so O(1) might
2406mean it might do a lengthy realloc operation in rare cases, but on average
2407it is much faster and asymptotically approaches constant time.
2408
1960=over 4 2409=over 4
1961 2410
1962=item Starting and stopping timer/periodic watchers: O(log skipped_other_timers) 2411=item Starting and stopping timer/periodic watchers: O(log skipped_other_timers)
1963 2412
2413This means that, when you have a watcher that triggers in one hour and
2414there are 100 watchers that would trigger before that then inserting will
2415have to skip those 100 watchers.
2416
1964=item Changing timer/periodic watchers (by autorepeat, again): O(log skipped_other_timers) 2417=item Changing timer/periodic watchers (by autorepeat, again): O(log skipped_other_timers)
1965 2418
2419That means that for changing a timer costs less than removing/adding them
2420as only the relative motion in the event queue has to be paid for.
2421
1966=item Starting io/check/prepare/idle/signal/child watchers: O(1) 2422=item Starting io/check/prepare/idle/signal/child watchers: O(1)
1967 2423
2424These just add the watcher into an array or at the head of a list.
1968=item Stopping check/prepare/idle watchers: O(1) 2425=item Stopping check/prepare/idle watchers: O(1)
1969 2426
1970=item Stopping an io/signal/child watcher: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_(fd/signal/pid % 16)) 2427=item Stopping an io/signal/child watcher: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_(fd/signal/pid % EV_PID_HASHSIZE))
2428
2429These watchers are stored in lists then need to be walked to find the
2430correct watcher to remove. The lists are usually short (you don't usually
2431have many watchers waiting for the same fd or signal).
1971 2432
1972=item Finding the next timer per loop iteration: O(1) 2433=item Finding the next timer per loop iteration: O(1)
1973 2434
1974=item Each change on a file descriptor per loop iteration: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_fd) 2435=item Each change on a file descriptor per loop iteration: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_fd)
1975 2436
2437A change means an I/O watcher gets started or stopped, which requires
2438libev to recalculate its status (and possibly tell the kernel).
2439
1976=item Activating one watcher: O(1) 2440=item Activating one watcher: O(1)
1977 2441
2442=item Priority handling: O(number_of_priorities)
2443
2444Priorities are implemented by allocating some space for each
2445priority. When doing priority-based operations, libev usually has to
2446linearly search all the priorities.
2447
1978=back 2448=back
1979 2449
1980 2450
1981=head1 AUTHOR 2451=head1 AUTHOR
1982 2452

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