ViewVC Help
View File | Revision Log | Show Annotations | Download File
/cvs/libev/ev.pod
(Generate patch)

Comparing libev/ev.pod (file contents):
Revision 1.70 by root, Fri Dec 7 19:23:48 2007 UTC vs.
Revision 1.94 by root, Fri Dec 21 04:38:45 2007 UTC

53The newest version of this document is also available as a html-formatted 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 54web page you might find easier to navigate when reading it for the first
55time: L<http://cvs.schmorp.de/libev/ev.html>. 55time: L<http://cvs.schmorp.de/libev/ev.html>.
56 56
57Libev 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
58file descriptor being readable or a timeout occuring), and it will manage 58file descriptor being readable or a timeout occurring), and it will manage
59these event sources and provide your program with events. 59these event sources and provide your program with events.
60 60
61To do this, it must take more or less complete control over your process 61To do this, it must take more or less complete control over your process
62(or thread) by executing the I<event loop> handler, and will then 62(or thread) by executing the I<event loop> handler, and will then
63communicate events via a callback mechanism. 63communicate events via a callback mechanism.
98Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing the 98Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing the
99(fractional) number of seconds since the (POSIX) epoch (somewhere near 99(fractional) number of seconds since the (POSIX) epoch (somewhere near
100the 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
101called 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
102to 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
103it, you should treat it as such. 103it, you should treat it as some floatingpoint value. Unlike the name
104component C<stamp> might indicate, it is also used for time differences
105throughout libev.
104 106
105=head1 GLOBAL FUNCTIONS 107=head1 GLOBAL FUNCTIONS
106 108
107These functions can be called anytime, even before initialising the 109These functions can be called anytime, even before initialising the
108library in any way. 110library in any way.
117 119
118=item int ev_version_major () 120=item int ev_version_major ()
119 121
120=item int ev_version_minor () 122=item int ev_version_minor ()
121 123
122You can find out the major and minor version numbers of the library 124You can find out the major and minor ABI version numbers of the library
123you linked against by calling the functions C<ev_version_major> and 125you linked against by calling the functions C<ev_version_major> and
124C<ev_version_minor>. If you want, you can compare against the global 126C<ev_version_minor>. If you want, you can compare against the global
125symbols C<EV_VERSION_MAJOR> and C<EV_VERSION_MINOR>, which specify the 127symbols C<EV_VERSION_MAJOR> and C<EV_VERSION_MINOR>, which specify the
126version of the library your program was compiled against. 128version of the library your program was compiled against.
127 129
130These version numbers refer to the ABI version of the library, not the
131release version.
132
128Usually, it's a good idea to terminate if the major versions mismatch, 133Usually, it's a good idea to terminate if the major versions mismatch,
129as this indicates an incompatible change. Minor versions are usually 134as this indicates an incompatible change. Minor versions are usually
130compatible to older versions, so a larger minor version alone is usually 135compatible to older versions, so a larger minor version alone is usually
131not a problem. 136not a problem.
132 137
133Example: Make sure we haven't accidentally been linked against the wrong 138Example: Make sure we haven't accidentally been linked against the wrong
134version. 139version.
308lot of inactive fds). It scales similarly to select, i.e. O(total_fds). 313lot of inactive fds). It scales similarly to select, i.e. O(total_fds).
309 314
310=item C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL> (value 4, Linux) 315=item C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL> (value 4, Linux)
311 316
312For few fds, this backend is a bit little slower than poll and select, 317For few fds, this backend is a bit little slower than poll and select,
313but it scales phenomenally better. While poll and select usually scale like 318but it scales phenomenally better. While poll and select usually scale
314O(total_fds) where n is the total number of fds (or the highest fd), epoll scales 319like O(total_fds) where n is the total number of fds (or the highest fd),
315either O(1) or O(active_fds). 320epoll scales either O(1) or O(active_fds). The epoll design has a number
321of shortcomings, such as silently dropping events in some hard-to-detect
322cases and rewuiring a syscall per fd change, no fork support and bad
323support for dup:
316 324
317While stopping and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration will 325While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration
318result in some caching, there is still a syscall per such incident 326will result in some caching, there is still a syscall per such incident
319(because the fd could point to a different file description now), so its 327(because the fd could point to a different file description now), so its
320best to avoid that. Also, dup()ed file descriptors might not work very 328best to avoid that. Also, C<dup ()>'ed file descriptors might not work
321well if you register events for both fds. 329very well if you register events for both fds.
322 330
323Please note that epoll sometimes generates spurious notifications, so you 331Please note that epoll sometimes generates spurious notifications, so you
324need to use non-blocking I/O or other means to avoid blocking when no data 332need to use non-blocking I/O or other means to avoid blocking when no data
325(or space) is available. 333(or space) is available.
326 334
327=item C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE> (value 8, most BSD clones) 335=item C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE> (value 8, most BSD clones)
328 336
329Kqueue deserves special mention, as at the time of this writing, it 337Kqueue deserves special mention, as at the time of this writing, it
330was broken on all BSDs except NetBSD (usually it doesn't work with 338was broken on I<all> BSDs (usually it doesn't work with anything but
331anything but sockets and pipes, except on Darwin, where of course its 339sockets and pipes, except on Darwin, where of course it's completely
340useless. On NetBSD, it seems to work for all the FD types I tested, so it
332completely useless). For this reason its not being "autodetected" 341is used by default there). For this reason it's not being "autodetected"
333unless you explicitly specify it explicitly in the flags (i.e. using 342unless you explicitly specify it explicitly in the flags (i.e. using
334C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE>). 343C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE>) or libev was compiled on a known-to-be-good (-enough)
344system like NetBSD.
335 345
336It scales in the same way as the epoll backend, but the interface to the 346It scales in the same way as the epoll backend, but the interface to the
337kernel is more efficient (which says nothing about its actual speed, of 347kernel is more efficient (which says nothing about its actual speed,
338course). While starting and stopping an I/O watcher does not cause an 348of course). While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher does
339extra syscall as with epoll, it still adds up to four event changes per 349never cause an extra syscall as with epoll, it still adds up to two event
340incident, so its best to avoid that. 350changes per incident, support for C<fork ()> is very bad and it drops fds
351silently in similarly hard-to-detetc cases.
341 352
342=item C<EVBACKEND_DEVPOLL> (value 16, Solaris 8) 353=item C<EVBACKEND_DEVPOLL> (value 16, Solaris 8)
343 354
344This is not implemented yet (and might never be). 355This is not implemented yet (and might never be).
345 356
346=item C<EVBACKEND_PORT> (value 32, Solaris 10) 357=item C<EVBACKEND_PORT> (value 32, Solaris 10)
347 358
348This uses the Solaris 10 port mechanism. As with everything on Solaris, 359This uses the Solaris 10 event port mechanism. As with everything on Solaris,
349it's really slow, but it still scales very well (O(active_fds)). 360it's really slow, but it still scales very well (O(active_fds)).
350 361
351Please note that solaris ports can result in a lot of spurious 362Please note that solaris event ports can deliver a lot of spurious
352notifications, so you need to use non-blocking I/O or other means to avoid 363notifications, so you need to use non-blocking I/O or other means to avoid
353blocking when no data (or space) is available. 364blocking when no data (or space) is available.
354 365
355=item C<EVBACKEND_ALL> 366=item C<EVBACKEND_ALL>
356 367
399Destroys the default loop again (frees all memory and kernel state 410Destroys the default loop again (frees all memory and kernel state
400etc.). None of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal 411etc.). None of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal
401sense, so e.g. C<ev_is_active> might still return true. It is your 412sense, so e.g. C<ev_is_active> might still return true. It is your
402responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yoursef I<before> 413responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yoursef I<before>
403calling this function, or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually 414calling this function, or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually
404the easiest thing, youc na just ignore the watchers and/or C<free ()> them 415the easiest thing, you can just ignore the watchers and/or C<free ()> them
405for example). 416for example).
417
418Note that certain global state, such as signal state, will not be freed by
419this function, and related watchers (such as signal and child watchers)
420would need to be stopped manually.
421
422In general it is not advisable to call this function except in the
423rare occasion where you really need to free e.g. the signal handling
424pipe fds. If you need dynamically allocated loops it is better to use
425C<ev_loop_new> and C<ev_loop_destroy>).
406 426
407=item ev_loop_destroy (loop) 427=item ev_loop_destroy (loop)
408 428
409Like C<ev_default_destroy>, but destroys an event loop created by an 429Like C<ev_default_destroy>, but destroys an event loop created by an
410earlier call to C<ev_loop_new>. 430earlier call to C<ev_loop_new>.
455 475
456Returns the current "event loop time", which is the time the event loop 476Returns the current "event loop time", which is the time the event loop
457received events and started processing them. This timestamp does not 477received events and started processing them. This timestamp does not
458change as long as callbacks are being processed, and this is also the base 478change as long as callbacks are being processed, and this is also the base
459time used for relative timers. You can treat it as the timestamp of the 479time used for relative timers. You can treat it as the timestamp of the
460event occuring (or more correctly, libev finding out about it). 480event occurring (or more correctly, libev finding out about it).
461 481
462=item ev_loop (loop, int flags) 482=item ev_loop (loop, int flags)
463 483
464Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called 484Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called
465after you initialised all your watchers and you want to start handling 485after you initialised all your watchers and you want to start handling
486libev watchers. However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is 506libev watchers. However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is
487usually a better approach for this kind of thing. 507usually a better approach for this kind of thing.
488 508
489Here are the gory details of what C<ev_loop> does: 509Here are the gory details of what C<ev_loop> does:
490 510
511 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers.
491 * If there are no active watchers (reference count is zero), return. 512 * If there are no active watchers (reference count is zero), return.
492 - Queue prepare watchers and then call all outstanding watchers. 513 - Queue all prepare watchers and then call all outstanding watchers.
493 - If we have been forked, recreate the kernel state. 514 - If we have been forked, recreate the kernel state.
494 - Update the kernel state with all outstanding changes. 515 - Update the kernel state with all outstanding changes.
495 - Update the "event loop time". 516 - Update the "event loop time".
496 - Calculate for how long to block. 517 - Calculate for how long to block.
497 - Block the process, waiting for any events. 518 - Block the process, waiting for any events.
736=item bool ev_is_pending (ev_TYPE *watcher) 757=item bool ev_is_pending (ev_TYPE *watcher)
737 758
738Returns a true value iff the watcher is pending, (i.e. it has outstanding 759Returns a true value iff the watcher is pending, (i.e. it has outstanding
739events but its callback has not yet been invoked). As long as a watcher 760events but its callback has not yet been invoked). As long as a watcher
740is pending (but not active) you must not call an init function on it (but 761is pending (but not active) you must not call an init function on it (but
741C<ev_TYPE_set> is safe) and you must make sure the watcher is available to 762C<ev_TYPE_set> is safe), you must not change its priority, and you must
742libev (e.g. you cnanot C<free ()> it). 763make sure the watcher is available to libev (e.g. you cannot C<free ()>
764it).
743 765
744=item callback ev_cb (ev_TYPE *watcher) 766=item callback ev_cb (ev_TYPE *watcher)
745 767
746Returns the callback currently set on the watcher. 768Returns the callback currently set on the watcher.
747 769
766watchers on the same event and make sure one is called first. 788watchers on the same event and make sure one is called first.
767 789
768If you need to suppress invocation when higher priority events are pending 790If you need to suppress invocation when higher priority events are pending
769you need to look at C<ev_idle> watchers, which provide this functionality. 791you need to look at C<ev_idle> watchers, which provide this functionality.
770 792
793You I<must not> change the priority of a watcher as long as it is active or
794pending.
795
771The default priority used by watchers when no priority has been set is 796The default priority used by watchers when no priority has been set is
772always C<0>, which is supposed to not be too high and not be too low :). 797always C<0>, which is supposed to not be too high and not be too low :).
773 798
774Setting a priority outside the range of C<EV_MINPRI> to C<EV_MAXPRI> is 799Setting a priority outside the range of C<EV_MINPRI> to C<EV_MAXPRI> is
775fine, as long as you do not mind that the priority value you query might 800fine, as long as you do not mind that the priority value you query might
776or might not have been adjusted to be within valid range. 801or might not have been adjusted to be within valid range.
802
803=item ev_invoke (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher, int revents)
804
805Invoke the C<watcher> with the given C<loop> and C<revents>. Neither
806C<loop> nor C<revents> need to be valid as long as the watcher callback
807can deal with that fact.
808
809=item int ev_clear_pending (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher)
810
811If the watcher is pending, this function returns clears its pending status
812and returns its C<revents> bitset (as if its callback was invoked). If the
813watcher isn't pending it does nothing and returns C<0>.
777 814
778=back 815=back
779 816
780 817
781=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER 818=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER
891play around with an Xlib connection), then you have to seperately re-test 928play around with an Xlib connection), then you have to seperately re-test
892whether a file descriptor is really ready with a known-to-be good interface 929whether a file descriptor is really ready with a known-to-be good interface
893such as poll (fortunately in our Xlib example, Xlib already does this on 930such as poll (fortunately in our Xlib example, Xlib already does this on
894its own, so its quite safe to use). 931its own, so its quite safe to use).
895 932
933=head3 The special problem of disappearing file descriptors
934
935Some backends (e.g. kqueue, epoll) need to be told about closing a file
936descriptor (either by calling C<close> explicitly or by any other means,
937such as C<dup>). The reason is that you register interest in some file
938descriptor, but when it goes away, the operating system will silently drop
939this interest. If another file descriptor with the same number then is
940registered with libev, there is no efficient way to see that this is, in
941fact, a different file descriptor.
942
943To avoid having to explicitly tell libev about such cases, libev follows
944the following policy: Each time C<ev_io_set> is being called, libev
945will assume that this is potentially a new file descriptor, otherwise
946it is assumed that the file descriptor stays the same. That means that
947you I<have> to call C<ev_io_set> (or C<ev_io_init>) when you change the
948descriptor even if the file descriptor number itself did not change.
949
950This is how one would do it normally anyway, the important point is that
951the libev application should not optimise around libev but should leave
952optimisations to libev.
953
954=head3 Ths special problem of dup'ed file descriptors
955
956Some backends (e.g. epoll), cannot register events for file descriptors,
957but only events for the underlying file descriptions. That menas when you
958have C<dup ()>'ed file descriptors and register events for them, only one
959file descriptor might actually receive events.
960
961There is no workaorund possible except not registering events
962for potentially C<dup ()>'ed file descriptors or to resort to
963C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
964
965=head3 The special problem of fork
966
967Some backends (epoll, kqueue) do not support C<fork ()> at all or exhibit
968useless behaviour. Libev fully supports fork, but needs to be told about
969it in the child.
970
971To support fork in your programs, you either have to call
972C<ev_default_fork ()> or C<ev_loop_fork ()> after a fork in the child,
973enable C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>, or resort to C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or
974C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
975
976
977=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions
978
896=over 4 979=over 4
897 980
898=item ev_io_init (ev_io *, callback, int fd, int events) 981=item ev_io_init (ev_io *, callback, int fd, int events)
899 982
900=item ev_io_set (ev_io *, int fd, int events) 983=item ev_io_set (ev_io *, int fd, int events)
952 ev_timer_set (&timer, after + ev_now () - ev_time (), 0.); 1035 ev_timer_set (&timer, after + ev_now () - ev_time (), 0.);
953 1036
954The callback is guarenteed to be invoked only when its timeout has passed, 1037The callback is guarenteed to be invoked only when its timeout has passed,
955but if multiple timers become ready during the same loop iteration then 1038but if multiple timers become ready during the same loop iteration then
956order of execution is undefined. 1039order of execution is undefined.
1040
1041=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
957 1042
958=over 4 1043=over 4
959 1044
960=item ev_timer_init (ev_timer *, callback, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat) 1045=item ev_timer_init (ev_timer *, callback, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat)
961 1046
1057but on wallclock time (absolute time). You can tell a periodic watcher 1142but on wallclock time (absolute time). You can tell a periodic watcher
1058to trigger "at" some specific point in time. For example, if you tell a 1143to trigger "at" some specific point in time. For example, if you tell a
1059periodic watcher to trigger in 10 seconds (by specifiying e.g. C<ev_now () 1144periodic watcher to trigger in 10 seconds (by specifiying e.g. C<ev_now ()
1060+ 10.>) and then reset your system clock to the last year, then it will 1145+ 10.>) and then reset your system clock to the last year, then it will
1061take a year to trigger the event (unlike an C<ev_timer>, which would trigger 1146take a year to trigger the event (unlike an C<ev_timer>, which would trigger
1062roughly 10 seconds later and of course not if you reset your system time 1147roughly 10 seconds later).
1063again).
1064 1148
1065They can also be used to implement vastly more complex timers, such as 1149They can also be used to implement vastly more complex timers, such as
1066triggering an event on eahc midnight, local time. 1150triggering an event on each midnight, local time or other, complicated,
1151rules.
1067 1152
1068As with timers, the callback is guarenteed to be invoked only when the 1153As with timers, the callback is guarenteed to be invoked only when the
1069time (C<at>) has been passed, but if multiple periodic timers become ready 1154time (C<at>) has been passed, but if multiple periodic timers become ready
1070during the same loop iteration then order of execution is undefined. 1155during the same loop iteration then order of execution is undefined.
1071 1156
1157=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1158
1072=over 4 1159=over 4
1073 1160
1074=item ev_periodic_init (ev_periodic *, callback, ev_tstamp at, ev_tstamp interval, reschedule_cb) 1161=item ev_periodic_init (ev_periodic *, callback, ev_tstamp at, ev_tstamp interval, reschedule_cb)
1075 1162
1076=item ev_periodic_set (ev_periodic *, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat, reschedule_cb) 1163=item ev_periodic_set (ev_periodic *, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat, reschedule_cb)
1078Lots of arguments, lets sort it out... There are basically three modes of 1165Lots of arguments, lets sort it out... There are basically three modes of
1079operation, and we will explain them from simplest to complex: 1166operation, and we will explain them from simplest to complex:
1080 1167
1081=over 4 1168=over 4
1082 1169
1083=item * absolute timer (interval = reschedule_cb = 0) 1170=item * absolute timer (at = time, interval = reschedule_cb = 0)
1084 1171
1085In this configuration the watcher triggers an event at the wallclock time 1172In this configuration the watcher triggers an event at the wallclock time
1086C<at> and doesn't repeat. It will not adjust when a time jump occurs, 1173C<at> and doesn't repeat. It will not adjust when a time jump occurs,
1087that is, if it is to be run at January 1st 2011 then it will run when the 1174that is, if it is to be run at January 1st 2011 then it will run when the
1088system time reaches or surpasses this time. 1175system time reaches or surpasses this time.
1089 1176
1090=item * non-repeating interval timer (interval > 0, reschedule_cb = 0) 1177=item * non-repeating interval timer (at = offset, interval > 0, reschedule_cb = 0)
1091 1178
1092In this mode the watcher will always be scheduled to time out at the next 1179In this mode the watcher will always be scheduled to time out at the next
1093C<at + N * interval> time (for some integer N) and then repeat, regardless 1180C<at + N * interval> time (for some integer N, which can also be negative)
1094of any time jumps. 1181and then repeat, regardless of any time jumps.
1095 1182
1096This can be used to create timers that do not drift with respect to system 1183This can be used to create timers that do not drift with respect to system
1097time: 1184time:
1098 1185
1099 ev_periodic_set (&periodic, 0., 3600., 0); 1186 ev_periodic_set (&periodic, 0., 3600., 0);
1105 1192
1106Another way to think about it (for the mathematically inclined) is that 1193Another way to think about it (for the mathematically inclined) is that
1107C<ev_periodic> will try to run the callback in this mode at the next possible 1194C<ev_periodic> will try to run the callback in this mode at the next possible
1108time where C<time = at (mod interval)>, regardless of any time jumps. 1195time where C<time = at (mod interval)>, regardless of any time jumps.
1109 1196
1197For numerical stability it is preferable that the C<at> value is near
1198C<ev_now ()> (the current time), but there is no range requirement for
1199this value.
1200
1110=item * manual reschedule mode (reschedule_cb = callback) 1201=item * manual reschedule mode (at and interval ignored, reschedule_cb = callback)
1111 1202
1112In this mode the values for C<interval> and C<at> are both being 1203In this mode the values for C<interval> and C<at> are both being
1113ignored. Instead, each time the periodic watcher gets scheduled, the 1204ignored. Instead, each time the periodic watcher gets scheduled, the
1114reschedule callback will be called with the watcher as first, and the 1205reschedule callback will be called with the watcher as first, and the
1115current time as second argument. 1206current time as second argument.
1116 1207
1117NOTE: I<This callback MUST NOT stop or destroy any periodic watcher, 1208NOTE: I<This callback MUST NOT stop or destroy any periodic watcher,
1118ever, or make any event loop modifications>. If you need to stop it, 1209ever, or make any event loop modifications>. If you need to stop it,
1119return C<now + 1e30> (or so, fudge fudge) and stop it afterwards (e.g. by 1210return C<now + 1e30> (or so, fudge fudge) and stop it afterwards (e.g. by
1120starting a prepare watcher). 1211starting an C<ev_prepare> watcher, which is legal).
1121 1212
1122Its prototype is C<ev_tstamp (*reschedule_cb)(struct ev_periodic *w, 1213Its prototype is C<ev_tstamp (*reschedule_cb)(struct ev_periodic *w,
1123ev_tstamp now)>, e.g.: 1214ev_tstamp now)>, e.g.:
1124 1215
1125 static ev_tstamp my_rescheduler (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now) 1216 static ev_tstamp my_rescheduler (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now)
1148Simply stops and restarts the periodic watcher again. This is only useful 1239Simply stops and restarts the periodic watcher again. This is only useful
1149when you changed some parameters or the reschedule callback would return 1240when you changed some parameters or the reschedule callback would return
1150a different time than the last time it was called (e.g. in a crond like 1241a different time than the last time it was called (e.g. in a crond like
1151program when the crontabs have changed). 1242program when the crontabs have changed).
1152 1243
1244=item ev_tstamp offset [read-write]
1245
1246When repeating, this contains the offset value, otherwise this is the
1247absolute point in time (the C<at> value passed to C<ev_periodic_set>).
1248
1249Can be modified any time, but changes only take effect when the periodic
1250timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being called.
1251
1153=item ev_tstamp interval [read-write] 1252=item ev_tstamp interval [read-write]
1154 1253
1155The current interval value. Can be modified any time, but changes only 1254The current interval value. Can be modified any time, but changes only
1156take effect when the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being 1255take effect when the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being
1157called. 1256called.
1159=item ev_tstamp (*reschedule_cb)(struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now) [read-write] 1258=item ev_tstamp (*reschedule_cb)(struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now) [read-write]
1160 1259
1161The current reschedule callback, or C<0>, if this functionality is 1260The current reschedule callback, or C<0>, if this functionality is
1162switched off. Can be changed any time, but changes only take effect when 1261switched off. Can be changed any time, but changes only take effect when
1163the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being called. 1262the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being called.
1263
1264=item ev_tstamp at [read-only]
1265
1266When active, contains the absolute time that the watcher is supposed to
1267trigger next.
1164 1268
1165=back 1269=back
1166 1270
1167Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the 1271Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the
1168system clock is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have 1272system clock is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have
1210with the kernel (thus it coexists with your own signal handlers as long 1314with the kernel (thus it coexists with your own signal handlers as long
1211as you don't register any with libev). Similarly, when the last signal 1315as you don't register any with libev). Similarly, when the last signal
1212watcher for a signal is stopped libev will reset the signal handler to 1316watcher for a signal is stopped libev will reset the signal handler to
1213SIG_DFL (regardless of what it was set to before). 1317SIG_DFL (regardless of what it was set to before).
1214 1318
1319=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1320
1215=over 4 1321=over 4
1216 1322
1217=item ev_signal_init (ev_signal *, callback, int signum) 1323=item ev_signal_init (ev_signal *, callback, int signum)
1218 1324
1219=item ev_signal_set (ev_signal *, int signum) 1325=item ev_signal_set (ev_signal *, int signum)
1230 1336
1231=head2 C<ev_child> - watch out for process status changes 1337=head2 C<ev_child> - watch out for process status changes
1232 1338
1233Child watchers trigger when your process receives a SIGCHLD in response to 1339Child watchers trigger when your process receives a SIGCHLD in response to
1234some child status changes (most typically when a child of yours dies). 1340some child status changes (most typically when a child of yours dies).
1341
1342=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1235 1343
1236=over 4 1344=over 4
1237 1345
1238=item ev_child_init (ev_child *, callback, int pid) 1346=item ev_child_init (ev_child *, callback, int pid)
1239 1347
1307reader). Inotify will be used to give hints only and should not change the 1415reader). Inotify will be used to give hints only and should not change the
1308semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers, which means that libev sometimes needs 1416semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers, which means that libev sometimes needs
1309to fall back to regular polling again even with inotify, but changes are 1417to fall back to regular polling again even with inotify, but changes are
1310usually detected immediately, and if the file exists there will be no 1418usually detected immediately, and if the file exists there will be no
1311polling. 1419polling.
1420
1421=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1312 1422
1313=over 4 1423=over 4
1314 1424
1315=item ev_stat_init (ev_stat *, callback, const char *path, ev_tstamp interval) 1425=item ev_stat_init (ev_stat *, callback, const char *path, ev_tstamp interval)
1316 1426
1399Apart from keeping your process non-blocking (which is a useful 1509Apart from keeping your process non-blocking (which is a useful
1400effect on its own sometimes), idle watchers are a good place to do 1510effect on its own sometimes), idle watchers are a good place to do
1401"pseudo-background processing", or delay processing stuff to after the 1511"pseudo-background processing", or delay processing stuff to after the
1402event loop has handled all outstanding events. 1512event loop has handled all outstanding events.
1403 1513
1514=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1515
1404=over 4 1516=over 4
1405 1517
1406=item ev_idle_init (ev_signal *, callback) 1518=item ev_idle_init (ev_signal *, callback)
1407 1519
1408Initialises and configures the idle watcher - it has no parameters of any 1520Initialises and configures the idle watcher - it has no parameters of any
1465with priority higher than or equal to the event loop and one coroutine 1577with priority higher than or equal to the event loop and one coroutine
1466of lower priority, but only once, using idle watchers to keep the event 1578of lower priority, but only once, using idle watchers to keep the event
1467loop from blocking if lower-priority coroutines are active, thus mapping 1579loop from blocking if lower-priority coroutines are active, thus mapping
1468low-priority coroutines to idle/background tasks). 1580low-priority coroutines to idle/background tasks).
1469 1581
1582It is recommended to give C<ev_check> watchers highest (C<EV_MAXPRI>)
1583priority, to ensure that they are being run before any other watchers
1584after the poll. Also, C<ev_check> watchers (and C<ev_prepare> watchers,
1585too) should not activate ("feed") events into libev. While libev fully
1586supports this, they will be called before other C<ev_check> watchers did
1587their job. As C<ev_check> watchers are often used to embed other event
1588loops those other event loops might be in an unusable state until their
1589C<ev_check> watcher ran (always remind yourself to coexist peacefully with
1590others).
1591
1592=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1593
1470=over 4 1594=over 4
1471 1595
1472=item ev_prepare_init (ev_prepare *, callback) 1596=item ev_prepare_init (ev_prepare *, callback)
1473 1597
1474=item ev_check_init (ev_check *, callback) 1598=item ev_check_init (ev_check *, callback)
1477parameters of any kind. There are C<ev_prepare_set> and C<ev_check_set> 1601parameters of any kind. There are C<ev_prepare_set> and C<ev_check_set>
1478macros, but using them is utterly, utterly and completely pointless. 1602macros, but using them is utterly, utterly and completely pointless.
1479 1603
1480=back 1604=back
1481 1605
1482Example: To include a library such as adns, you would add IO watchers 1606There are a number of principal ways to embed other event loops or modules
1483and a timeout watcher in a prepare handler, as required by libadns, and 1607into libev. Here are some ideas on how to include libadns into libev
1608(there is a Perl module named C<EV::ADNS> that does this, which you could
1609use for an actually working example. Another Perl module named C<EV::Glib>
1610embeds a Glib main context into libev, and finally, C<Glib::EV> embeds EV
1611into the Glib event loop).
1612
1613Method 1: Add IO watchers and a timeout watcher in a prepare handler,
1484in a check watcher, destroy them and call into libadns. What follows is 1614and in a check watcher, destroy them and call into libadns. What follows
1485pseudo-code only of course: 1615is pseudo-code only of course. This requires you to either use a low
1616priority for the check watcher or use C<ev_clear_pending> explicitly, as
1617the callbacks for the IO/timeout watchers might not have been called yet.
1486 1618
1487 static ev_io iow [nfd]; 1619 static ev_io iow [nfd];
1488 static ev_timer tw; 1620 static ev_timer tw;
1489 1621
1490 static void 1622 static void
1491 io_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents) 1623 io_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents)
1492 { 1624 {
1493 // set the relevant poll flags
1494 // could also call adns_processreadable etc. here
1495 struct pollfd *fd = (struct pollfd *)w->data;
1496 if (revents & EV_READ ) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLIN;
1497 if (revents & EV_WRITE) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLOUT;
1498 } 1625 }
1499 1626
1500 // create io watchers for each fd and a timer before blocking 1627 // create io watchers for each fd and a timer before blocking
1501 static void 1628 static void
1502 adns_prepare_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_prepare *w, int revents) 1629 adns_prepare_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_prepare *w, int revents)
1508 1635
1509 /* the callback is illegal, but won't be called as we stop during check */ 1636 /* the callback is illegal, but won't be called as we stop during check */
1510 ev_timer_init (&tw, 0, timeout * 1e-3); 1637 ev_timer_init (&tw, 0, timeout * 1e-3);
1511 ev_timer_start (loop, &tw); 1638 ev_timer_start (loop, &tw);
1512 1639
1513 // create on ev_io per pollfd 1640 // create one ev_io per pollfd
1514 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i) 1641 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i)
1515 { 1642 {
1516 ev_io_init (iow + i, io_cb, fds [i].fd, 1643 ev_io_init (iow + i, io_cb, fds [i].fd,
1517 ((fds [i].events & POLLIN ? EV_READ : 0) 1644 ((fds [i].events & POLLIN ? EV_READ : 0)
1518 | (fds [i].events & POLLOUT ? EV_WRITE : 0))); 1645 | (fds [i].events & POLLOUT ? EV_WRITE : 0)));
1519 1646
1520 fds [i].revents = 0; 1647 fds [i].revents = 0;
1521 iow [i].data = fds + i;
1522 ev_io_start (loop, iow + i); 1648 ev_io_start (loop, iow + i);
1523 } 1649 }
1524 } 1650 }
1525 1651
1526 // stop all watchers after blocking 1652 // stop all watchers after blocking
1528 adns_check_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_check *w, int revents) 1654 adns_check_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_check *w, int revents)
1529 { 1655 {
1530 ev_timer_stop (loop, &tw); 1656 ev_timer_stop (loop, &tw);
1531 1657
1532 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i) 1658 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i)
1659 {
1660 // set the relevant poll flags
1661 // could also call adns_processreadable etc. here
1662 struct pollfd *fd = fds + i;
1663 int revents = ev_clear_pending (iow + i);
1664 if (revents & EV_READ ) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLIN;
1665 if (revents & EV_WRITE) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLOUT;
1666
1667 // now stop the watcher
1533 ev_io_stop (loop, iow + i); 1668 ev_io_stop (loop, iow + i);
1669 }
1534 1670
1535 adns_afterpoll (adns, fds, nfd, timeval_from (ev_now (loop)); 1671 adns_afterpoll (adns, fds, nfd, timeval_from (ev_now (loop));
1672 }
1673
1674Method 2: This would be just like method 1, but you run C<adns_afterpoll>
1675in the prepare watcher and would dispose of the check watcher.
1676
1677Method 3: If the module to be embedded supports explicit event
1678notification (adns does), you can also make use of the actual watcher
1679callbacks, and only destroy/create the watchers in the prepare watcher.
1680
1681 static void
1682 timer_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1683 {
1684 adns_state ads = (adns_state)w->data;
1685 update_now (EV_A);
1686
1687 adns_processtimeouts (ads, &tv_now);
1688 }
1689
1690 static void
1691 io_cb (EV_P_ ev_io *w, int revents)
1692 {
1693 adns_state ads = (adns_state)w->data;
1694 update_now (EV_A);
1695
1696 if (revents & EV_READ ) adns_processreadable (ads, w->fd, &tv_now);
1697 if (revents & EV_WRITE) adns_processwriteable (ads, w->fd, &tv_now);
1698 }
1699
1700 // do not ever call adns_afterpoll
1701
1702Method 4: Do not use a prepare or check watcher because the module you
1703want to embed is too inflexible to support it. Instead, youc na override
1704their poll function. The drawback with this solution is that the main
1705loop is now no longer controllable by EV. The C<Glib::EV> module does
1706this.
1707
1708 static gint
1709 event_poll_func (GPollFD *fds, guint nfds, gint timeout)
1710 {
1711 int got_events = 0;
1712
1713 for (n = 0; n < nfds; ++n)
1714 // create/start io watcher that sets the relevant bits in fds[n] and increment got_events
1715
1716 if (timeout >= 0)
1717 // create/start timer
1718
1719 // poll
1720 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0);
1721
1722 // stop timer again
1723 if (timeout >= 0)
1724 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &to);
1725
1726 // stop io watchers again - their callbacks should have set
1727 for (n = 0; n < nfds; ++n)
1728 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ iow [n]);
1729
1730 return got_events;
1536 } 1731 }
1537 1732
1538 1733
1539=head2 C<ev_embed> - when one backend isn't enough... 1734=head2 C<ev_embed> - when one backend isn't enough...
1540 1735
1541This is a rather advanced watcher type that lets you embed one event loop 1736This is a rather advanced watcher type that lets you embed one event loop
1542into another (currently only C<ev_io> events are supported in the embedded 1737into another (currently only C<ev_io> events are supported in the embedded
1543loop, other types of watchers might be handled in a delayed or incorrect 1738loop, other types of watchers might be handled in a delayed or incorrect
1544fashion and must not be used). 1739fashion and must not be used). (See portability notes, below).
1545 1740
1546There are primarily two reasons you would want that: work around bugs and 1741There are primarily two reasons you would want that: work around bugs and
1547prioritise I/O. 1742prioritise I/O.
1548 1743
1549As an example for a bug workaround, the kqueue backend might only support 1744As an example for a bug workaround, the kqueue backend might only support
1604 ev_embed_start (loop_hi, &embed); 1799 ev_embed_start (loop_hi, &embed);
1605 } 1800 }
1606 else 1801 else
1607 loop_lo = loop_hi; 1802 loop_lo = loop_hi;
1608 1803
1804=head2 Portability notes
1805
1806Kqueue is nominally embeddable, but this is broken on all BSDs that I
1807tried, in various ways. Usually the embedded event loop will simply never
1808receive events, sometimes it will only trigger a few times, sometimes in a
1809loop. Epoll is also nominally embeddable, but many Linux kernel versions
1810will always eport the epoll fd as ready, even when no events are pending.
1811
1812While libev allows embedding these backends (they are contained in
1813C<ev_embeddable_backends ()>), take extreme care that it will actually
1814work.
1815
1816When in doubt, create a dynamic event loop forced to use sockets (this
1817usually works) and possibly another thread and a pipe or so to report to
1818your main event loop.
1819
1820=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1821
1609=over 4 1822=over 4
1610 1823
1611=item ev_embed_init (ev_embed *, callback, struct ev_loop *embedded_loop) 1824=item ev_embed_init (ev_embed *, callback, struct ev_loop *embedded_loop)
1612 1825
1613=item ev_embed_set (ev_embed *, callback, struct ev_loop *embedded_loop) 1826=item ev_embed_set (ev_embed *, callback, struct ev_loop *embedded_loop)
1622 1835
1623Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works 1836Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works
1624similarly to C<ev_loop (embedded_loop, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK)>, but in the most 1837similarly to C<ev_loop (embedded_loop, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK)>, but in the most
1625apropriate way for embedded loops. 1838apropriate way for embedded loops.
1626 1839
1627=item struct ev_loop *loop [read-only] 1840=item struct ev_loop *other [read-only]
1628 1841
1629The embedded event loop. 1842The embedded event loop.
1630 1843
1631=back 1844=back
1632 1845
1639event loop blocks next and before C<ev_check> watchers are being called, 1852event loop blocks next and before C<ev_check> watchers are being called,
1640and only in the child after the fork. If whoever good citizen calling 1853and only in the child after the fork. If whoever good citizen calling
1641C<ev_default_fork> cheats and calls it in the wrong process, the fork 1854C<ev_default_fork> cheats and calls it in the wrong process, the fork
1642handlers will be invoked, too, of course. 1855handlers will be invoked, too, of course.
1643 1856
1857=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1858
1644=over 4 1859=over 4
1645 1860
1646=item ev_fork_init (ev_signal *, callback) 1861=item ev_fork_init (ev_signal *, callback)
1647 1862
1648Initialises and configures the fork watcher - it has no parameters of any 1863Initialises and configures the fork watcher - it has no parameters of any
1744 1959
1745To use it, 1960To use it,
1746 1961
1747 #include <ev++.h> 1962 #include <ev++.h>
1748 1963
1749(it is not installed by default). This automatically includes F<ev.h> 1964This automatically includes F<ev.h> and puts all of its definitions (many
1750and puts all of its definitions (many of them macros) into the global 1965of them macros) into the global namespace. All C++ specific things are
1751namespace. All C++ specific things are put into the C<ev> namespace. 1966put into the C<ev> namespace. It should support all the same embedding
1967options as F<ev.h>, most notably C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>.
1752 1968
1753It should support all the same embedding options as F<ev.h>, most notably 1969Care has been taken to keep the overhead low. The only data member the C++
1754C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>. 1970classes add (compared to plain C-style watchers) is the event loop pointer
1971that the watcher is associated with (or no additional members at all if
1972you disable C<EV_MULTIPLICITY> when embedding libev).
1973
1974Currently, functions, and static and non-static member functions can be
1975used as callbacks. Other types should be easy to add as long as they only
1976need one additional pointer for context. If you need support for other
1977types of functors please contact the author (preferably after implementing
1978it).
1755 1979
1756Here is a list of things available in the C<ev> namespace: 1980Here is a list of things available in the C<ev> namespace:
1757 1981
1758=over 4 1982=over 4
1759 1983
1775 1999
1776All of those classes have these methods: 2000All of those classes have these methods:
1777 2001
1778=over 4 2002=over 4
1779 2003
1780=item ev::TYPE::TYPE (object *, object::method *) 2004=item ev::TYPE::TYPE ()
1781 2005
1782=item ev::TYPE::TYPE (object *, object::method *, struct ev_loop *) 2006=item ev::TYPE::TYPE (struct ev_loop *)
1783 2007
1784=item ev::TYPE::~TYPE 2008=item ev::TYPE::~TYPE
1785 2009
1786The constructor takes a pointer to an object and a method pointer to 2010The constructor (optionally) takes an event loop to associate the watcher
1787the event handler callback to call in this class. The constructor calls 2011with. If it is omitted, it will use C<EV_DEFAULT>.
1788C<ev_init> for you, which means you have to call the C<set> method 2012
1789before starting it. If you do not specify a loop then the constructor 2013The constructor calls C<ev_init> for you, which means you have to call the
1790automatically associates the default loop with this watcher. 2014C<set> method before starting it.
2015
2016It will not set a callback, however: You have to call the templated C<set>
2017method to set a callback before you can start the watcher.
2018
2019(The reason why you have to use a method is a limitation in C++ which does
2020not allow explicit template arguments for constructors).
1791 2021
1792The destructor automatically stops the watcher if it is active. 2022The destructor automatically stops the watcher if it is active.
2023
2024=item w->set<class, &class::method> (object *)
2025
2026This method sets the callback method to call. The method has to have a
2027signature of C<void (*)(ev_TYPE &, int)>, it receives the watcher as
2028first argument and the C<revents> as second. The object must be given as
2029parameter and is stored in the C<data> member of the watcher.
2030
2031This method synthesizes efficient thunking code to call your method from
2032the C callback that libev requires. If your compiler can inline your
2033callback (i.e. it is visible to it at the place of the C<set> call and
2034your compiler is good :), then the method will be fully inlined into the
2035thunking function, making it as fast as a direct C callback.
2036
2037Example: simple class declaration and watcher initialisation
2038
2039 struct myclass
2040 {
2041 void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { }
2042 }
2043
2044 myclass obj;
2045 ev::io iow;
2046 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj);
2047
2048=item w->set<function> (void *data = 0)
2049
2050Also sets a callback, but uses a static method or plain function as
2051callback. The optional C<data> argument will be stored in the watcher's
2052C<data> member and is free for you to use.
2053
2054The prototype of the C<function> must be C<void (*)(ev::TYPE &w, int)>.
2055
2056See the method-C<set> above for more details.
2057
2058Example:
2059
2060 static void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { }
2061 iow.set <io_cb> ();
1793 2062
1794=item w->set (struct ev_loop *) 2063=item w->set (struct ev_loop *)
1795 2064
1796Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only 2065Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only
1797do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either). 2066do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either).
1798 2067
1799=item w->set ([args]) 2068=item w->set ([args])
1800 2069
1801Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same args. Must be 2070Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same args. Must be
1802called at least once. Unlike the C counterpart, an active watcher gets 2071called at least once. Unlike the C counterpart, an active watcher gets
1803automatically stopped and restarted. 2072automatically stopped and restarted when reconfiguring it with this
2073method.
1804 2074
1805=item w->start () 2075=item w->start ()
1806 2076
1807Starts the watcher. Note that there is no C<loop> argument as the 2077Starts the watcher. Note that there is no C<loop> argument, as the
1808constructor already takes the loop. 2078constructor already stores the event loop.
1809 2079
1810=item w->stop () 2080=item w->stop ()
1811 2081
1812Stops the watcher if it is active. Again, no C<loop> argument. 2082Stops the watcher if it is active. Again, no C<loop> argument.
1813 2083
1814=item w->again () C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic> only 2084=item w->again () (C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic> only)
1815 2085
1816For C<ev::timer> and C<ev::periodic>, this invokes the corresponding 2086For C<ev::timer> and C<ev::periodic>, this invokes the corresponding
1817C<ev_TYPE_again> function. 2087C<ev_TYPE_again> function.
1818 2088
1819=item w->sweep () C<ev::embed> only 2089=item w->sweep () (C<ev::embed> only)
1820 2090
1821Invokes C<ev_embed_sweep>. 2091Invokes C<ev_embed_sweep>.
1822 2092
1823=item w->update () C<ev::stat> only 2093=item w->update () (C<ev::stat> only)
1824 2094
1825Invokes C<ev_stat_stat>. 2095Invokes C<ev_stat_stat>.
1826 2096
1827=back 2097=back
1828 2098
1838 2108
1839 myclass (); 2109 myclass ();
1840 } 2110 }
1841 2111
1842 myclass::myclass (int fd) 2112 myclass::myclass (int fd)
1843 : io (this, &myclass::io_cb),
1844 idle (this, &myclass::idle_cb)
1845 { 2113 {
2114 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this);
2115 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this);
2116
1846 io.start (fd, ev::READ); 2117 io.start (fd, ev::READ);
1847 } 2118 }
1848 2119
1849 2120
1850=head1 MACRO MAGIC 2121=head1 MACRO MAGIC
1851 2122
1852Libev can be compiled with a variety of options, the most fundemantal is 2123Libev can be compiled with a variety of options, the most fundamantal
1853C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>. This option determines whether (most) functions and 2124of which is C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>. This option determines whether (most)
1854callbacks have an initial C<struct ev_loop *> argument. 2125functions and callbacks have an initial C<struct ev_loop *> argument.
1855 2126
1856To make it easier to write programs that cope with either variant, the 2127To make it easier to write programs that cope with either variant, the
1857following macros are defined: 2128following macros are defined:
1858 2129
1859=over 4 2130=over 4
1913Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host 2184Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host
1914applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra 2185applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra
1915Game Server, the EV perl module, the GNU Virtual Private Ethernet (gvpe) 2186Game Server, the EV perl module, the GNU Virtual Private Ethernet (gvpe)
1916and rxvt-unicode. 2187and rxvt-unicode.
1917 2188
1918The goal is to enable you to just copy the neecssary files into your 2189The goal is to enable you to just copy the necessary files into your
1919source directory without having to change even a single line in them, so 2190source directory without having to change even a single line in them, so
1920you can easily upgrade by simply copying (or having a checked-out copy of 2191you can easily upgrade by simply copying (or having a checked-out copy of
1921libev somewhere in your source tree). 2192libev somewhere in your source tree).
1922 2193
1923=head2 FILESETS 2194=head2 FILESETS
2013 2284
2014If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the 2285If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the
2015monotonic clock option at both compiletime and runtime. Otherwise no use 2286monotonic clock option at both compiletime and runtime. Otherwise no use
2016of the monotonic clock option will be attempted. If you enable this, you 2287of the monotonic clock option will be attempted. If you enable this, you
2017usually have to link against librt or something similar. Enabling it when 2288usually have to link against librt or something similar. Enabling it when
2018the functionality isn't available is safe, though, althoguh you have 2289the functionality isn't available is safe, though, although you have
2019to make sure you link against any libraries where the C<clock_gettime> 2290to make sure you link against any libraries where the C<clock_gettime>
2020function is hiding in (often F<-lrt>). 2291function is hiding in (often F<-lrt>).
2021 2292
2022=item EV_USE_REALTIME 2293=item EV_USE_REALTIME
2023 2294
2024If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the 2295If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the
2025realtime clock option at compiletime (and assume its availability at 2296realtime clock option at compiletime (and assume its availability at
2026runtime if successful). Otherwise no use of the realtime clock option will 2297runtime if successful). Otherwise no use of the realtime clock option will
2027be attempted. This effectively replaces C<gettimeofday> by C<clock_get 2298be attempted. This effectively replaces C<gettimeofday> by C<clock_get
2028(CLOCK_REALTIME, ...)> and will not normally affect correctness. See tzhe note about libraries 2299(CLOCK_REALTIME, ...)> and will not normally affect correctness. See the
2029in the description of C<EV_USE_MONOTONIC>, though. 2300note about libraries in the description of C<EV_USE_MONOTONIC>, though.
2030 2301
2031=item EV_USE_SELECT 2302=item EV_USE_SELECT
2032 2303
2033If undefined or defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the 2304If undefined or defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the
2034C<select>(2) backend. No attempt at autodetection will be done: if no 2305C<select>(2) backend. No attempt at autodetection will be done: if no
2213 2484
2214=item ev_set_cb (ev, cb) 2485=item ev_set_cb (ev, cb)
2215 2486
2216Can be used to change the callback member declaration in each watcher, 2487Can be used to change the callback member declaration in each watcher,
2217and the way callbacks are invoked and set. Must expand to a struct member 2488and the way callbacks are invoked and set. Must expand to a struct member
2218definition and a statement, respectively. See the F<ev.v> header file for 2489definition and a statement, respectively. See the F<ev.h> header file for
2219their default definitions. One possible use for overriding these is to 2490their default definitions. One possible use for overriding these is to
2220avoid the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument in all cases, or to use 2491avoid the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument in all cases, or to use
2221method calls instead of plain function calls in C++. 2492method calls instead of plain function calls in C++.
2493
2494=head2 EXPORTED API SYMBOLS
2495
2496If you need to re-export the API (e.g. via a dll) and you need a list of
2497exported symbols, you can use the provided F<Symbol.*> files which list
2498all public symbols, one per line:
2499
2500 Symbols.ev for libev proper
2501 Symbols.event for the libevent emulation
2502
2503This can also be used to rename all public symbols to avoid clashes with
2504multiple versions of libev linked together (which is obviously bad in
2505itself, but sometimes it is inconvinient to avoid this).
2506
2507A sed command like this will create wrapper C<#define>'s that you need to
2508include before including F<ev.h>:
2509
2510 <Symbols.ev sed -e "s/.*/#define & myprefix_&/" >wrap.h
2511
2512This would create a file F<wrap.h> which essentially looks like this:
2513
2514 #define ev_backend myprefix_ev_backend
2515 #define ev_check_start myprefix_ev_check_start
2516 #define ev_check_stop myprefix_ev_check_stop
2517 ...
2222 2518
2223=head2 EXAMPLES 2519=head2 EXAMPLES
2224 2520
2225For a real-world example of a program the includes libev 2521For a real-world example of a program the includes libev
2226verbatim, you can have a look at the EV perl module 2522verbatim, you can have a look at the EV perl module

Diff Legend

Removed lines
+ Added lines
< Changed lines
> Changed lines