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48 return 0; 48 return 0;
49 } 49 }
50 50
51=head1 DESCRIPTION 51=head1 DESCRIPTION
52 52
53The newest version of this document is also available as a html-formatted
54web page you might find easier to navigate when reading it for the first
55time: L<http://cvs.schmorp.de/libev/ev.html>.
56
53Libev is an event loop: you register interest in certain events (such as a 57Libev is an event loop: you register interest in certain events (such as a
54file descriptor being readable or a timeout occuring), and it will manage 58file descriptor being readable or a timeout occurring), and it will manage
55these event sources and provide your program with events. 59these event sources and provide your program with events.
56 60
57To do this, it must take more or less complete control over your process 61To do this, it must take more or less complete control over your process
58(or thread) by executing the I<event loop> handler, and will then 62(or thread) by executing the I<event loop> handler, and will then
59communicate events via a callback mechanism. 63communicate events via a callback mechanism.
94Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing the 98Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing the
95(fractional) number of seconds since the (POSIX) epoch (somewhere near 99(fractional) number of seconds since the (POSIX) epoch (somewhere near
96the beginning of 1970, details are complicated, don't ask). This type is 100the beginning of 1970, details are complicated, don't ask). This type is
97called C<ev_tstamp>, which is what you should use too. It usually aliases 101called C<ev_tstamp>, which is what you should use too. It usually aliases
98to the C<double> type in C, and when you need to do any calculations on 102to the C<double> type in C, and when you need to do any calculations on
99it, you should treat it as such. 103it, you should treat it as some floatingpoint value. Unlike the name
104component C<stamp> might indicate, it is also used for time differences
105throughout libev.
100 106
101=head1 GLOBAL FUNCTIONS 107=head1 GLOBAL FUNCTIONS
102 108
103These functions can be called anytime, even before initialising the 109These functions can be called anytime, even before initialising the
104library in any way. 110library in any way.
113 119
114=item int ev_version_major () 120=item int ev_version_major ()
115 121
116=item int ev_version_minor () 122=item int ev_version_minor ()
117 123
118You 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
119you linked against by calling the functions C<ev_version_major> and 125you linked against by calling the functions C<ev_version_major> and
120C<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
121symbols 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
122version of the library your program was compiled against. 128version of the library your program was compiled against.
123 129
130These version numbers refer to the ABI version of the library, not the
131release version.
132
124Usually, 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,
125as this indicates an incompatible change. Minor versions are usually 134as this indicates an incompatible change. Minor versions are usually
126compatible to older versions, so a larger minor version alone is usually 135compatible to older versions, so a larger minor version alone is usually
127not a problem. 136not a problem.
128 137
129Example: Make sure we haven't accidentally been linked against the wrong 138Example: Make sure we haven't accidentally been linked against the wrong
130version. 139version.
266C<LIBEV_FLAGS>. Otherwise (the default), this environment variable will 275C<LIBEV_FLAGS>. Otherwise (the default), this environment variable will
267override the flags completely if it is found in the environment. This is 276override the flags completely if it is found in the environment. This is
268useful to try out specific backends to test their performance, or to work 277useful to try out specific backends to test their performance, or to work
269around bugs. 278around bugs.
270 279
280=item C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>
281
282Instead of calling C<ev_default_fork> or C<ev_loop_fork> manually after
283a fork, you can also make libev check for a fork in each iteration by
284enabling this flag.
285
286This works by calling C<getpid ()> on every iteration of the loop,
287and thus this might slow down your event loop if you do a lot of loop
288iterations and little real work, but is usually not noticeable (on my
289Linux system for example, C<getpid> is actually a simple 5-insn sequence
290without a syscall and thus I<very> fast, but my Linux system also has
291C<pthread_atfork> which is even faster).
292
293The big advantage of this flag is that you can forget about fork (and
294forget about forgetting to tell libev about forking) when you use this
295flag.
296
297This flag setting cannot be overriden or specified in the C<LIBEV_FLAGS>
298environment variable.
299
271=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend) 300=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend)
272 301
273This is your standard select(2) backend. Not I<completely> standard, as 302This is your standard select(2) backend. Not I<completely> standard, as
274libev tries to roll its own fd_set with no limits on the number of fds, 303libev tries to roll its own fd_set with no limits on the number of fds,
275but if that fails, expect a fairly low limit on the number of fds when 304but if that fails, expect a fairly low limit on the number of fds when
284lot of inactive fds). It scales similarly to select, i.e. O(total_fds). 313lot of inactive fds). It scales similarly to select, i.e. O(total_fds).
285 314
286=item C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL> (value 4, Linux) 315=item C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL> (value 4, Linux)
287 316
288For 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,
289but it scales phenomenally better. While poll and select usually scale like 318but it scales phenomenally better. While poll and select usually scale
290O(total_fds) where n is the total number of fds (or the highest fd), epoll scales 319like O(total_fds) where n is the total number of fds (or the highest fd),
291either 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 rewiring a syscall per fd change, no fork support and bad
323support for dup:
292 324
293While 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
294result in some caching, there is still a syscall per such incident 326will result in some caching, there is still a syscall per such incident
295(because the fd could point to a different file description now), so its 327(because the fd could point to a different file description now), so its
296best to avoid that. Also, dup()ed file descriptors might not work very 328best to avoid that. Also, C<dup ()>'ed file descriptors might not work
297well if you register events for both fds. 329very well if you register events for both fds.
298 330
299Please note that epoll sometimes generates spurious notifications, so you 331Please note that epoll sometimes generates spurious notifications, so you
300need to use non-blocking I/O or other means to avoid blocking when no data 332need to use non-blocking I/O or other means to avoid blocking when no data
301(or space) is available. 333(or space) is available.
302 334
303=item C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE> (value 8, most BSD clones) 335=item C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE> (value 8, most BSD clones)
304 336
305Kqueue deserves special mention, as at the time of this writing, it 337Kqueue deserves special mention, as at the time of this writing, it
306was 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
307anything 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
308completely useless). For this reason its not being "autodetected" 341is used by default there). For this reason it's not being "autodetected"
309unless you explicitly specify it explicitly in the flags (i.e. using 342unless you explicitly specify it explicitly in the flags (i.e. using
310C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE>). 343C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE>) or libev was compiled on a known-to-be-good (-enough)
344system like NetBSD.
311 345
312It 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
313kernel is more efficient (which says nothing about its actual speed, of 347kernel is more efficient (which says nothing about its actual speed,
314course). While starting and stopping an I/O watcher does not cause an 348of course). While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher does
315extra 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
316incident, 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.
317 352
318=item C<EVBACKEND_DEVPOLL> (value 16, Solaris 8) 353=item C<EVBACKEND_DEVPOLL> (value 16, Solaris 8)
319 354
320This is not implemented yet (and might never be). 355This is not implemented yet (and might never be).
321 356
322=item C<EVBACKEND_PORT> (value 32, Solaris 10) 357=item C<EVBACKEND_PORT> (value 32, Solaris 10)
323 358
324This uses the Solaris 10 port mechanism. As with everything on Solaris, 359This uses the Solaris 10 event port mechanism. As with everything on Solaris,
325it's really slow, but it still scales very well (O(active_fds)). 360it's really slow, but it still scales very well (O(active_fds)).
326 361
327Please note that solaris ports can result in a lot of spurious 362Please note that solaris event ports can deliver a lot of spurious
328notifications, so you need to use non-blocking I/O or other means to avoid 363notifications, so you need to use non-blocking I/O or other means to avoid
329blocking when no data (or space) is available. 364blocking when no data (or space) is available.
330 365
331=item C<EVBACKEND_ALL> 366=item C<EVBACKEND_ALL>
332 367
375Destroys the default loop again (frees all memory and kernel state 410Destroys the default loop again (frees all memory and kernel state
376etc.). 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
377sense, 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
378responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yoursef I<before> 413responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yoursef I<before>
379calling this function, or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually 414calling this function, or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually
380the easiest thing, youc na just ignore the watchers and/or C<free ()> them 415the easiest thing, you can just ignore the watchers and/or C<free ()> them
381for 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>).
382 426
383=item ev_loop_destroy (loop) 427=item ev_loop_destroy (loop)
384 428
385Like 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
386earlier call to C<ev_loop_new>. 430earlier call to C<ev_loop_new>.
410 454
411Like C<ev_default_fork>, but acts on an event loop created by 455Like C<ev_default_fork>, but acts on an event loop created by
412C<ev_loop_new>. Yes, you have to call this on every allocated event loop 456C<ev_loop_new>. Yes, you have to call this on every allocated event loop
413after fork, and how you do this is entirely your own problem. 457after fork, and how you do this is entirely your own problem.
414 458
459=item unsigned int ev_loop_count (loop)
460
461Returns the count of loop iterations for the loop, which is identical to
462the number of times libev did poll for new events. It starts at C<0> and
463happily wraps around with enough iterations.
464
465This value can sometimes be useful as a generation counter of sorts (it
466"ticks" the number of loop iterations), as it roughly corresponds with
467C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> calls.
468
415=item unsigned int ev_backend (loop) 469=item unsigned int ev_backend (loop)
416 470
417Returns one of the C<EVBACKEND_*> flags indicating the event backend in 471Returns one of the C<EVBACKEND_*> flags indicating the event backend in
418use. 472use.
419 473
421 475
422Returns 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
423received events and started processing them. This timestamp does not 477received events and started processing them. This timestamp does not
424change 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
425time 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
426event occuring (or more correctly, libev finding out about it). 480event occurring (or more correctly, libev finding out about it).
427 481
428=item ev_loop (loop, int flags) 482=item ev_loop (loop, int flags)
429 483
430Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called 484Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called
431after you initialised all your watchers and you want to start handling 485after you initialised all your watchers and you want to start handling
452libev watchers. However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is 506libev watchers. However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is
453usually a better approach for this kind of thing. 507usually a better approach for this kind of thing.
454 508
455Here are the gory details of what C<ev_loop> does: 509Here are the gory details of what C<ev_loop> does:
456 510
511 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers.
457 * If there are no active watchers (reference count is zero), return. 512 * If there are no active watchers (reference count is zero), return.
458 - Queue prepare watchers and then call all outstanding watchers. 513 - Queue all prepare watchers and then call all outstanding watchers.
459 - If we have been forked, recreate the kernel state. 514 - If we have been forked, recreate the kernel state.
460 - Update the kernel state with all outstanding changes. 515 - Update the kernel state with all outstanding changes.
461 - Update the "event loop time". 516 - Update the "event loop time".
462 - Calculate for how long to block. 517 - Calculate for how long to block.
463 - Block the process, waiting for any events. 518 - Block the process, waiting for any events.
702=item bool ev_is_pending (ev_TYPE *watcher) 757=item bool ev_is_pending (ev_TYPE *watcher)
703 758
704Returns 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
705events 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
706is 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
707C<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
708libev (e.g. you cnanot C<free ()> it). 763make sure the watcher is available to libev (e.g. you cannot C<free ()>
764it).
709 765
710=item callback ev_cb (ev_TYPE *watcher) 766=item callback ev_cb (ev_TYPE *watcher)
711 767
712Returns the callback currently set on the watcher. 768Returns the callback currently set on the watcher.
713 769
714=item ev_cb_set (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback) 770=item ev_cb_set (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback)
715 771
716Change the callback. You can change the callback at virtually any time 772Change the callback. You can change the callback at virtually any time
717(modulo threads). 773(modulo threads).
774
775=item ev_set_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher, priority)
776
777=item int ev_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher)
778
779Set and query the priority of the watcher. The priority is a small
780integer between C<EV_MAXPRI> (default: C<2>) and C<EV_MINPRI>
781(default: C<-2>). Pending watchers with higher priority will be invoked
782before watchers with lower priority, but priority will not keep watchers
783from being executed (except for C<ev_idle> watchers).
784
785This means that priorities are I<only> used for ordering callback
786invocation after new events have been received. This is useful, for
787example, to reduce latency after idling, or more often, to bind two
788watchers on the same event and make sure one is called first.
789
790If you need to suppress invocation when higher priority events are pending
791you need to look at C<ev_idle> watchers, which provide this functionality.
792
793You I<must not> change the priority of a watcher as long as it is active or
794pending.
795
796The default priority used by watchers when no priority has been set is
797always C<0>, which is supposed to not be too high and not be too low :).
798
799Setting a priority outside the range of C<EV_MINPRI> to C<EV_MAXPRI> is
800fine, as long as you do not mind that the priority value you query might
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>.
718 814
719=back 815=back
720 816
721 817
722=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER 818=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER
828it is best to always use non-blocking I/O: An extra C<read>(2) returning 924it is best to always use non-blocking I/O: An extra C<read>(2) returning
829C<EAGAIN> is far preferable to a program hanging until some data arrives. 925C<EAGAIN> is far preferable to a program hanging until some data arrives.
830 926
831If you cannot run the fd in non-blocking mode (for example you should not 927If you cannot run the fd in non-blocking mode (for example you should not
832play around with an Xlib connection), then you have to seperately re-test 928play around with an Xlib connection), then you have to seperately re-test
833wether a file descriptor is really ready with a known-to-be good interface 929whether a file descriptor is really ready with a known-to-be good interface
834such as poll (fortunately in our Xlib example, Xlib already does this on 930such as poll (fortunately in our Xlib example, Xlib already does this on
835its own, so its quite safe to use). 931its own, so its quite safe to use).
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 The 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
836 978
837=over 4 979=over 4
838 980
839=item ev_io_init (ev_io *, callback, int fd, int events) 981=item ev_io_init (ev_io *, callback, int fd, int events)
840 982
894 1036
895The 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,
896but if multiple timers become ready during the same loop iteration then 1038but if multiple timers become ready during the same loop iteration then
897order of execution is undefined. 1039order of execution is undefined.
898 1040
1041=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1042
899=over 4 1043=over 4
900 1044
901=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)
902 1046
903=item ev_timer_set (ev_timer *, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat) 1047=item ev_timer_set (ev_timer *, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat)
916=item ev_timer_again (loop) 1060=item ev_timer_again (loop)
917 1061
918This will act as if the timer timed out and restart it again if it is 1062This will act as if the timer timed out and restart it again if it is
919repeating. The exact semantics are: 1063repeating. The exact semantics are:
920 1064
1065If the timer is pending, its pending status is cleared.
1066
921If the timer is started but nonrepeating, stop it. 1067If the timer is started but nonrepeating, stop it (as if it timed out).
922 1068
923If the timer is repeating, either start it if necessary (with the repeat 1069If the timer is repeating, either start it if necessary (with the
924value), or reset the running timer to the repeat value. 1070C<repeat> value), or reset the running timer to the C<repeat> value.
925 1071
926This sounds a bit complicated, but here is a useful and typical 1072This sounds a bit complicated, but here is a useful and typical
927example: Imagine you have a tcp connection and you want a so-called 1073example: Imagine you have a tcp connection and you want a so-called idle
928idle timeout, that is, you want to be called when there have been, 1074timeout, that is, you want to be called when there have been, say, 60
929say, 60 seconds of inactivity on the socket. The easiest way to do 1075seconds of inactivity on the socket. The easiest way to do this is to
930this is to configure an C<ev_timer> with C<after>=C<repeat>=C<60> and calling 1076configure an C<ev_timer> with a C<repeat> value of C<60> and then call
931C<ev_timer_again> each time you successfully read or write some data. If 1077C<ev_timer_again> each time you successfully read or write some data. If
932you go into an idle state where you do not expect data to travel on the 1078you go into an idle state where you do not expect data to travel on the
933socket, you can stop the timer, and again will automatically restart it if 1079socket, you can C<ev_timer_stop> the timer, and C<ev_timer_again> will
934need be. 1080automatically restart it if need be.
935 1081
936You can also ignore the C<after> value and C<ev_timer_start> altogether 1082That means you can ignore the C<after> value and C<ev_timer_start>
937and only ever use the C<repeat> value: 1083altogether and only ever use the C<repeat> value and C<ev_timer_again>:
938 1084
939 ev_timer_init (timer, callback, 0., 5.); 1085 ev_timer_init (timer, callback, 0., 5.);
940 ev_timer_again (loop, timer); 1086 ev_timer_again (loop, timer);
941 ... 1087 ...
942 timer->again = 17.; 1088 timer->again = 17.;
943 ev_timer_again (loop, timer); 1089 ev_timer_again (loop, timer);
944 ... 1090 ...
945 timer->again = 10.; 1091 timer->again = 10.;
946 ev_timer_again (loop, timer); 1092 ev_timer_again (loop, timer);
947 1093
948This is more efficient then stopping/starting the timer eahc time you want 1094This is more slightly efficient then stopping/starting the timer each time
949to modify its timeout value. 1095you want to modify its timeout value.
950 1096
951=item ev_tstamp repeat [read-write] 1097=item ev_tstamp repeat [read-write]
952 1098
953The current C<repeat> value. Will be used each time the watcher times out 1099The current C<repeat> value. Will be used each time the watcher times out
954or C<ev_timer_again> is called and determines the next timeout (if any), 1100or C<ev_timer_again> is called and determines the next timeout (if any),
996but on wallclock time (absolute time). You can tell a periodic watcher 1142but on wallclock time (absolute time). You can tell a periodic watcher
997to trigger "at" some specific point in time. For example, if you tell a 1143to trigger "at" some specific point in time. For example, if you tell a
998periodic watcher to trigger in 10 seconds (by specifiying e.g. C<ev_now () 1144periodic watcher to trigger in 10 seconds (by specifiying e.g. C<ev_now ()
999+ 10.>) and then reset your system clock to the last year, then it will 1145+ 10.>) and then reset your system clock to the last year, then it will
1000take a year to trigger the event (unlike an C<ev_timer>, which would trigger 1146take a year to trigger the event (unlike an C<ev_timer>, which would trigger
1001roughly 10 seconds later and of course not if you reset your system time 1147roughly 10 seconds later).
1002again).
1003 1148
1004They 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
1005triggering an event on eahc midnight, local time. 1150triggering an event on each midnight, local time or other, complicated,
1151rules.
1006 1152
1007As 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
1008time (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
1009during the same loop iteration then order of execution is undefined. 1155during the same loop iteration then order of execution is undefined.
1010 1156
1157=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1158
1011=over 4 1159=over 4
1012 1160
1013=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)
1014 1162
1015=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)
1017Lots 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
1018operation, and we will explain them from simplest to complex: 1166operation, and we will explain them from simplest to complex:
1019 1167
1020=over 4 1168=over 4
1021 1169
1022=item * absolute timer (interval = reschedule_cb = 0) 1170=item * absolute timer (at = time, interval = reschedule_cb = 0)
1023 1171
1024In this configuration the watcher triggers an event at the wallclock time 1172In this configuration the watcher triggers an event at the wallclock time
1025C<at> and doesn't repeat. It will not adjust when a time jump occurs, 1173C<at> and doesn't repeat. It will not adjust when a time jump occurs,
1026that is, if it is to be run at January 1st 2011 then it will run when the 1174that is, if it is to be run at January 1st 2011 then it will run when the
1027system time reaches or surpasses this time. 1175system time reaches or surpasses this time.
1028 1176
1029=item * non-repeating interval timer (interval > 0, reschedule_cb = 0) 1177=item * non-repeating interval timer (at = offset, interval > 0, reschedule_cb = 0)
1030 1178
1031In 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
1032C<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)
1033of any time jumps. 1181and then repeat, regardless of any time jumps.
1034 1182
1035This 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
1036time: 1184time:
1037 1185
1038 ev_periodic_set (&periodic, 0., 3600., 0); 1186 ev_periodic_set (&periodic, 0., 3600., 0);
1044 1192
1045Another way to think about it (for the mathematically inclined) is that 1193Another way to think about it (for the mathematically inclined) is that
1046C<ev_periodic> will try to run the callback in this mode at the next possible 1194C<ev_periodic> will try to run the callback in this mode at the next possible
1047time where C<time = at (mod interval)>, regardless of any time jumps. 1195time where C<time = at (mod interval)>, regardless of any time jumps.
1048 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
1049=item * manual reschedule mode (reschedule_cb = callback) 1201=item * manual reschedule mode (at and interval ignored, reschedule_cb = callback)
1050 1202
1051In 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
1052ignored. Instead, each time the periodic watcher gets scheduled, the 1204ignored. Instead, each time the periodic watcher gets scheduled, the
1053reschedule callback will be called with the watcher as first, and the 1205reschedule callback will be called with the watcher as first, and the
1054current time as second argument. 1206current time as second argument.
1055 1207
1056NOTE: I<This callback MUST NOT stop or destroy any periodic watcher, 1208NOTE: I<This callback MUST NOT stop or destroy any periodic watcher,
1057ever, 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,
1058return 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
1059starting a prepare watcher). 1211starting an C<ev_prepare> watcher, which is legal).
1060 1212
1061Its prototype is C<ev_tstamp (*reschedule_cb)(struct ev_periodic *w, 1213Its prototype is C<ev_tstamp (*reschedule_cb)(struct ev_periodic *w,
1062ev_tstamp now)>, e.g.: 1214ev_tstamp now)>, e.g.:
1063 1215
1064 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)
1087Simply stops and restarts the periodic watcher again. This is only useful 1239Simply stops and restarts the periodic watcher again. This is only useful
1088when you changed some parameters or the reschedule callback would return 1240when you changed some parameters or the reschedule callback would return
1089a different time than the last time it was called (e.g. in a crond like 1241a different time than the last time it was called (e.g. in a crond like
1090program when the crontabs have changed). 1242program when the crontabs have changed).
1091 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
1092=item ev_tstamp interval [read-write] 1252=item ev_tstamp interval [read-write]
1093 1253
1094The current interval value. Can be modified any time, but changes only 1254The current interval value. Can be modified any time, but changes only
1095take effect when the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being 1255take effect when the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being
1096called. 1256called.
1098=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]
1099 1259
1100The current reschedule callback, or C<0>, if this functionality is 1260The current reschedule callback, or C<0>, if this functionality is
1101switched 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
1102the 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.
1103 1268
1104=back 1269=back
1105 1270
1106Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the 1271Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the
1107system clock is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have 1272system clock is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have
1149with 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
1150as 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
1151watcher 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
1152SIG_DFL (regardless of what it was set to before). 1317SIG_DFL (regardless of what it was set to before).
1153 1318
1319=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1320
1154=over 4 1321=over 4
1155 1322
1156=item ev_signal_init (ev_signal *, callback, int signum) 1323=item ev_signal_init (ev_signal *, callback, int signum)
1157 1324
1158=item ev_signal_set (ev_signal *, int signum) 1325=item ev_signal_set (ev_signal *, int signum)
1169 1336
1170=head2 C<ev_child> - watch out for process status changes 1337=head2 C<ev_child> - watch out for process status changes
1171 1338
1172Child watchers trigger when your process receives a SIGCHLD in response to 1339Child watchers trigger when your process receives a SIGCHLD in response to
1173some 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
1174 1343
1175=over 4 1344=over 4
1176 1345
1177=item ev_child_init (ev_child *, callback, int pid) 1346=item ev_child_init (ev_child *, callback, int pid)
1178 1347
1222The path does not need to exist: changing from "path exists" to "path does 1391The path does not need to exist: changing from "path exists" to "path does
1223not exist" is a status change like any other. The condition "path does 1392not exist" is a status change like any other. The condition "path does
1224not exist" is signified by the C<st_nlink> field being zero (which is 1393not exist" is signified by the C<st_nlink> field being zero (which is
1225otherwise always forced to be at least one) and all the other fields of 1394otherwise always forced to be at least one) and all the other fields of
1226the stat buffer having unspecified contents. 1395the stat buffer having unspecified contents.
1396
1397The path I<should> be absolute and I<must not> end in a slash. If it is
1398relative and your working directory changes, the behaviour is undefined.
1227 1399
1228Since there is no standard to do this, the portable implementation simply 1400Since there is no standard to do this, the portable implementation simply
1229calls C<stat (2)> regularly on the path to see if it changed somehow. You 1401calls C<stat (2)> regularly on the path to see if it changed somehow. You
1230can specify a recommended polling interval for this case. If you specify 1402can specify a recommended polling interval for this case. If you specify
1231a polling interval of C<0> (highly recommended!) then a I<suitable, 1403a polling interval of C<0> (highly recommended!) then a I<suitable,
1243reader). 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
1244semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers, which means that libev sometimes needs 1416semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers, which means that libev sometimes needs
1245to 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
1246usually detected immediately, and if the file exists there will be no 1418usually detected immediately, and if the file exists there will be no
1247polling. 1419polling.
1420
1421=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1248 1422
1249=over 4 1423=over 4
1250 1424
1251=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)
1252 1426
1316 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd); 1490 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd);
1317 1491
1318 1492
1319=head2 C<ev_idle> - when you've got nothing better to do... 1493=head2 C<ev_idle> - when you've got nothing better to do...
1320 1494
1321Idle watchers trigger events when there are no other events are pending 1495Idle watchers trigger events when no other events of the same or higher
1322(prepare, check and other idle watchers do not count). That is, as long 1496priority are pending (prepare, check and other idle watchers do not
1323as your process is busy handling sockets or timeouts (or even signals, 1497count).
1324imagine) it will not be triggered. But when your process is idle all idle 1498
1325watchers are being called again and again, once per event loop iteration - 1499That is, as long as your process is busy handling sockets or timeouts
1500(or even signals, imagine) of the same or higher priority it will not be
1501triggered. But when your process is idle (or only lower-priority watchers
1502are pending), the idle watchers are being called once per event loop
1326until stopped, that is, or your process receives more events and becomes 1503iteration - until stopped, that is, or your process receives more events
1327busy. 1504and becomes busy again with higher priority stuff.
1328 1505
1329The most noteworthy effect is that as long as any idle watchers are 1506The most noteworthy effect is that as long as any idle watchers are
1330active, the process will not block when waiting for new events. 1507active, the process will not block when waiting for new events.
1331 1508
1332Apart from keeping your process non-blocking (which is a useful 1509Apart from keeping your process non-blocking (which is a useful
1333effect 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
1334"pseudo-background processing", or delay processing stuff to after the 1511"pseudo-background processing", or delay processing stuff to after the
1335event loop has handled all outstanding events. 1512event loop has handled all outstanding events.
1513
1514=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1336 1515
1337=over 4 1516=over 4
1338 1517
1339=item ev_idle_init (ev_signal *, callback) 1518=item ev_idle_init (ev_signal *, callback)
1340 1519
1398with 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
1399of 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
1400loop from blocking if lower-priority coroutines are active, thus mapping 1579loop from blocking if lower-priority coroutines are active, thus mapping
1401low-priority coroutines to idle/background tasks). 1580low-priority coroutines to idle/background tasks).
1402 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
1403=over 4 1594=over 4
1404 1595
1405=item ev_prepare_init (ev_prepare *, callback) 1596=item ev_prepare_init (ev_prepare *, callback)
1406 1597
1407=item ev_check_init (ev_check *, callback) 1598=item ev_check_init (ev_check *, callback)
1410parameters 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>
1411macros, but using them is utterly, utterly and completely pointless. 1602macros, but using them is utterly, utterly and completely pointless.
1412 1603
1413=back 1604=back
1414 1605
1415Example: 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
1416and 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,
1417in 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
1418pseudo-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.
1419 1618
1420 static ev_io iow [nfd]; 1619 static ev_io iow [nfd];
1421 static ev_timer tw; 1620 static ev_timer tw;
1422 1621
1423 static void 1622 static void
1424 io_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents) 1623 io_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents)
1425 { 1624 {
1426 // set the relevant poll flags
1427 // could also call adns_processreadable etc. here
1428 struct pollfd *fd = (struct pollfd *)w->data;
1429 if (revents & EV_READ ) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLIN;
1430 if (revents & EV_WRITE) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLOUT;
1431 } 1625 }
1432 1626
1433 // create io watchers for each fd and a timer before blocking 1627 // create io watchers for each fd and a timer before blocking
1434 static void 1628 static void
1435 adns_prepare_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_prepare *w, int revents) 1629 adns_prepare_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_prepare *w, int revents)
1436 { 1630 {
1437 int timeout = 3600000;truct pollfd fds [nfd]; 1631 int timeout = 3600000;
1632 struct pollfd fds [nfd];
1438 // actual code will need to loop here and realloc etc. 1633 // actual code will need to loop here and realloc etc.
1439 adns_beforepoll (ads, fds, &nfd, &timeout, timeval_from (ev_time ())); 1634 adns_beforepoll (ads, fds, &nfd, &timeout, timeval_from (ev_time ()));
1440 1635
1441 /* 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 */
1442 ev_timer_init (&tw, 0, timeout * 1e-3); 1637 ev_timer_init (&tw, 0, timeout * 1e-3);
1443 ev_timer_start (loop, &tw); 1638 ev_timer_start (loop, &tw);
1444 1639
1445 // create on ev_io per pollfd 1640 // create one ev_io per pollfd
1446 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i) 1641 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i)
1447 { 1642 {
1448 ev_io_init (iow + i, io_cb, fds [i].fd, 1643 ev_io_init (iow + i, io_cb, fds [i].fd,
1449 ((fds [i].events & POLLIN ? EV_READ : 0) 1644 ((fds [i].events & POLLIN ? EV_READ : 0)
1450 | (fds [i].events & POLLOUT ? EV_WRITE : 0))); 1645 | (fds [i].events & POLLOUT ? EV_WRITE : 0)));
1451 1646
1452 fds [i].revents = 0; 1647 fds [i].revents = 0;
1453 iow [i].data = fds + i;
1454 ev_io_start (loop, iow + i); 1648 ev_io_start (loop, iow + i);
1455 } 1649 }
1456 } 1650 }
1457 1651
1458 // stop all watchers after blocking 1652 // stop all watchers after blocking
1460 adns_check_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_check *w, int revents) 1654 adns_check_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_check *w, int revents)
1461 { 1655 {
1462 ev_timer_stop (loop, &tw); 1656 ev_timer_stop (loop, &tw);
1463 1657
1464 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
1465 ev_io_stop (loop, iow + i); 1668 ev_io_stop (loop, iow + i);
1669 }
1466 1670
1467 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;
1468 } 1731 }
1469 1732
1470 1733
1471=head2 C<ev_embed> - when one backend isn't enough... 1734=head2 C<ev_embed> - when one backend isn't enough...
1472 1735
1473This 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
1474into 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
1475loop, 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
1476fashion and must not be used). 1739fashion and must not be used). (See portability notes, below).
1477 1740
1478There 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
1479prioritise I/O. 1742prioritise I/O.
1480 1743
1481As 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
1536 ev_embed_start (loop_hi, &embed); 1799 ev_embed_start (loop_hi, &embed);
1537 } 1800 }
1538 else 1801 else
1539 loop_lo = loop_hi; 1802 loop_lo = loop_hi;
1540 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
1541=over 4 1822=over 4
1542 1823
1543=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)
1544 1825
1545=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)
1554 1835
1555Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works 1836Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works
1556similarly 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
1557apropriate way for embedded loops. 1838apropriate way for embedded loops.
1558 1839
1559=item struct ev_loop *loop [read-only] 1840=item struct ev_loop *other [read-only]
1560 1841
1561The embedded event loop. 1842The embedded event loop.
1562 1843
1563=back 1844=back
1564 1845
1571event 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,
1572and 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
1573C<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
1574handlers will be invoked, too, of course. 1855handlers will be invoked, too, of course.
1575 1856
1857=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1858
1576=over 4 1859=over 4
1577 1860
1578=item ev_fork_init (ev_signal *, callback) 1861=item ev_fork_init (ev_signal *, callback)
1579 1862
1580Initialises and configures the fork watcher - it has no parameters of any 1863Initialises and configures the fork watcher - it has no parameters of any
1676 1959
1677To use it, 1960To use it,
1678 1961
1679 #include <ev++.h> 1962 #include <ev++.h>
1680 1963
1681(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
1682and puts all of its definitions (many of them macros) into the global 1965of them macros) into the global namespace. All C++ specific things are
1683namespace. 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>.
1684 1968
1685It 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++
1686C<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).
1687 1979
1688Here is a list of things available in the C<ev> namespace: 1980Here is a list of things available in the C<ev> namespace:
1689 1981
1690=over 4 1982=over 4
1691 1983
1707 1999
1708All of those classes have these methods: 2000All of those classes have these methods:
1709 2001
1710=over 4 2002=over 4
1711 2003
1712=item ev::TYPE::TYPE (object *, object::method *) 2004=item ev::TYPE::TYPE ()
1713 2005
1714=item ev::TYPE::TYPE (object *, object::method *, struct ev_loop *) 2006=item ev::TYPE::TYPE (struct ev_loop *)
1715 2007
1716=item ev::TYPE::~TYPE 2008=item ev::TYPE::~TYPE
1717 2009
1718The constructor takes a pointer to an object and a method pointer to 2010The constructor (optionally) takes an event loop to associate the watcher
1719the event handler callback to call in this class. The constructor calls 2011with. If it is omitted, it will use C<EV_DEFAULT>.
1720C<ev_init> for you, which means you have to call the C<set> method 2012
1721before 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
1722automatically 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).
1723 2021
1724The 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> ();
1725 2062
1726=item w->set (struct ev_loop *) 2063=item w->set (struct ev_loop *)
1727 2064
1728Associates 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
1729do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either). 2066do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either).
1730 2067
1731=item w->set ([args]) 2068=item w->set ([args])
1732 2069
1733Basically 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
1734called at least once. Unlike the C counterpart, an active watcher gets 2071called at least once. Unlike the C counterpart, an active watcher gets
1735automatically stopped and restarted. 2072automatically stopped and restarted when reconfiguring it with this
2073method.
1736 2074
1737=item w->start () 2075=item w->start ()
1738 2076
1739Starts 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
1740constructor already takes the loop. 2078constructor already stores the event loop.
1741 2079
1742=item w->stop () 2080=item w->stop ()
1743 2081
1744Stops the watcher if it is active. Again, no C<loop> argument. 2082Stops the watcher if it is active. Again, no C<loop> argument.
1745 2083
1746=item w->again () C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic> only 2084=item w->again () (C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic> only)
1747 2085
1748For C<ev::timer> and C<ev::periodic>, this invokes the corresponding 2086For C<ev::timer> and C<ev::periodic>, this invokes the corresponding
1749C<ev_TYPE_again> function. 2087C<ev_TYPE_again> function.
1750 2088
1751=item w->sweep () C<ev::embed> only 2089=item w->sweep () (C<ev::embed> only)
1752 2090
1753Invokes C<ev_embed_sweep>. 2091Invokes C<ev_embed_sweep>.
1754 2092
1755=item w->update () C<ev::stat> only 2093=item w->update () (C<ev::stat> only)
1756 2094
1757Invokes C<ev_stat_stat>. 2095Invokes C<ev_stat_stat>.
1758 2096
1759=back 2097=back
1760 2098
1770 2108
1771 myclass (); 2109 myclass ();
1772 } 2110 }
1773 2111
1774 myclass::myclass (int fd) 2112 myclass::myclass (int fd)
1775 : io (this, &myclass::io_cb),
1776 idle (this, &myclass::idle_cb)
1777 { 2113 {
2114 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this);
2115 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this);
2116
1778 io.start (fd, ev::READ); 2117 io.start (fd, ev::READ);
1779 } 2118 }
1780 2119
1781 2120
1782=head1 MACRO MAGIC 2121=head1 MACRO MAGIC
1783 2122
1784Libev can be compiled with a variety of options, the most fundemantal is 2123Libev can be compiled with a variety of options, the most fundamantal
1785C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>. This option determines wether (most) functions and 2124of which is C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>. This option determines whether (most)
1786callbacks have an initial C<struct ev_loop *> argument. 2125functions and callbacks have an initial C<struct ev_loop *> argument.
1787 2126
1788To 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
1789following macros are defined: 2128following macros are defined:
1790 2129
1791=over 4 2130=over 4
1823Similar to the other two macros, this gives you the value of the default 2162Similar to the other two macros, this gives you the value of the default
1824loop, if multiple loops are supported ("ev loop default"). 2163loop, if multiple loops are supported ("ev loop default").
1825 2164
1826=back 2165=back
1827 2166
1828Example: Declare and initialise a check watcher, working regardless of 2167Example: Declare and initialise a check watcher, utilising the above
1829wether multiple loops are supported or not. 2168macros so it will work regardless of whether multiple loops are supported
2169or not.
1830 2170
1831 static void 2171 static void
1832 check_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 2172 check_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1833 { 2173 {
1834 ev_check_stop (EV_A_ w); 2174 ev_check_stop (EV_A_ w);
1837 ev_check check; 2177 ev_check check;
1838 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb); 2178 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb);
1839 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check); 2179 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check);
1840 ev_loop (EV_DEFAULT_ 0); 2180 ev_loop (EV_DEFAULT_ 0);
1841 2181
1842
1843=head1 EMBEDDING 2182=head1 EMBEDDING
1844 2183
1845Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host 2184Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host
1846applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra 2185applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra
1847Game Server, the EV perl module, the GNU Virtual Private Ethernet (gvpe) 2186Game Server, the EV perl module, the GNU Virtual Private Ethernet (gvpe)
1848and rxvt-unicode. 2187and rxvt-unicode.
1849 2188
1850The 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
1851source 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
1852you 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
1853libev somewhere in your source tree). 2192libev somewhere in your source tree).
1854 2193
1855=head2 FILESETS 2194=head2 FILESETS
1886 ev_vars.h 2225 ev_vars.h
1887 ev_wrap.h 2226 ev_wrap.h
1888 2227
1889 ev_win32.c required on win32 platforms only 2228 ev_win32.c required on win32 platforms only
1890 2229
1891 ev_select.c only when select backend is enabled (which is by default) 2230 ev_select.c only when select backend is enabled (which is enabled by default)
1892 ev_poll.c only when poll backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2231 ev_poll.c only when poll backend is enabled (disabled by default)
1893 ev_epoll.c only when the epoll backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2232 ev_epoll.c only when the epoll backend is enabled (disabled by default)
1894 ev_kqueue.c only when the kqueue backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2233 ev_kqueue.c only when the kqueue backend is enabled (disabled by default)
1895 ev_port.c only when the solaris port backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2234 ev_port.c only when the solaris port backend is enabled (disabled by default)
1896 2235
1945 2284
1946If 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
1947monotonic clock option at both compiletime and runtime. Otherwise no use 2286monotonic clock option at both compiletime and runtime. Otherwise no use
1948of 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
1949usually have to link against librt or something similar. Enabling it when 2288usually have to link against librt or something similar. Enabling it when
1950the functionality isn't available is safe, though, althoguh you have 2289the functionality isn't available is safe, though, although you have
1951to 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>
1952function is hiding in (often F<-lrt>). 2291function is hiding in (often F<-lrt>).
1953 2292
1954=item EV_USE_REALTIME 2293=item EV_USE_REALTIME
1955 2294
1956If 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
1957realtime clock option at compiletime (and assume its availability at 2296realtime clock option at compiletime (and assume its availability at
1958runtime if successful). Otherwise no use of the realtime clock option will 2297runtime if successful). Otherwise no use of the realtime clock option will
1959be attempted. This effectively replaces C<gettimeofday> by C<clock_get 2298be attempted. This effectively replaces C<gettimeofday> by C<clock_get
1960(CLOCK_REALTIME, ...)> and will not normally affect correctness. See tzhe note about libraries 2299(CLOCK_REALTIME, ...)> and will not normally affect correctness. See the
1961in the description of C<EV_USE_MONOTONIC>, though. 2300note about libraries in the description of C<EV_USE_MONOTONIC>, though.
1962 2301
1963=item EV_USE_SELECT 2302=item EV_USE_SELECT
1964 2303
1965If 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
1966C<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
2059will have the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument, and you can create 2398will have the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument, and you can create
2060additional independent event loops. Otherwise there will be no support 2399additional independent event loops. Otherwise there will be no support
2061for multiple event loops and there is no first event loop pointer 2400for multiple event loops and there is no first event loop pointer
2062argument. Instead, all functions act on the single default loop. 2401argument. Instead, all functions act on the single default loop.
2063 2402
2403=item EV_MINPRI
2404
2405=item EV_MAXPRI
2406
2407The range of allowed priorities. C<EV_MINPRI> must be smaller or equal to
2408C<EV_MAXPRI>, but otherwise there are no non-obvious limitations. You can
2409provide for more priorities by overriding those symbols (usually defined
2410to be C<-2> and C<2>, respectively).
2411
2412When doing priority-based operations, libev usually has to linearly search
2413all the priorities, so having many of them (hundreds) uses a lot of space
2414and time, so using the defaults of five priorities (-2 .. +2) is usually
2415fine.
2416
2417If your embedding app does not need any priorities, defining these both to
2418C<0> will save some memory and cpu.
2419
2064=item EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 2420=item EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE
2065 2421
2066If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then periodic timers are supported. If 2422If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then periodic timers are supported. If
2423defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of
2424code.
2425
2426=item EV_IDLE_ENABLE
2427
2428If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then idle watchers are supported. If
2067defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of 2429defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of
2068code. 2430code.
2069 2431
2070=item EV_EMBED_ENABLE 2432=item EV_EMBED_ENABLE
2071 2433
2122 2484
2123=item ev_set_cb (ev, cb) 2485=item ev_set_cb (ev, cb)
2124 2486
2125Can be used to change the callback member declaration in each watcher, 2487Can be used to change the callback member declaration in each watcher,
2126and 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
2127definition 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
2128their default definitions. One possible use for overriding these is to 2490their default definitions. One possible use for overriding these is to
2129avoid 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
2130method 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 ...
2131 2518
2132=head2 EXAMPLES 2519=head2 EXAMPLES
2133 2520
2134For a real-world example of a program the includes libev 2521For a real-world example of a program the includes libev
2135verbatim, you can have a look at the EV perl module 2522verbatim, you can have a look at the EV perl module
2138interface) and F<EV.xs> (implementation) files. Only the F<EV.xs> file 2525interface) and F<EV.xs> (implementation) files. Only the F<EV.xs> file
2139will be compiled. It is pretty complex because it provides its own header 2526will be compiled. It is pretty complex because it provides its own header
2140file. 2527file.
2141 2528
2142The usage in rxvt-unicode is simpler. It has a F<ev_cpp.h> header file 2529The usage in rxvt-unicode is simpler. It has a F<ev_cpp.h> header file
2143that everybody includes and which overrides some autoconf choices: 2530that everybody includes and which overrides some configure choices:
2144 2531
2532 #define EV_MINIMAL 1
2145 #define EV_USE_POLL 0 2533 #define EV_USE_POLL 0
2146 #define EV_MULTIPLICITY 0 2534 #define EV_MULTIPLICITY 0
2147 #define EV_PERIODICS 0 2535 #define EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 0
2536 #define EV_STAT_ENABLE 0
2537 #define EV_FORK_ENABLE 0
2148 #define EV_CONFIG_H <config.h> 2538 #define EV_CONFIG_H <config.h>
2539 #define EV_MINPRI 0
2540 #define EV_MAXPRI 0
2149 2541
2150 #include "ev++.h" 2542 #include "ev++.h"
2151 2543
2152And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled: 2544And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled:
2153 2545
2159 2551
2160In this section the complexities of (many of) the algorithms used inside 2552In this section the complexities of (many of) the algorithms used inside
2161libev will be explained. For complexity discussions about backends see the 2553libev will be explained. For complexity discussions about backends see the
2162documentation for C<ev_default_init>. 2554documentation for C<ev_default_init>.
2163 2555
2556All of the following are about amortised time: If an array needs to be
2557extended, libev needs to realloc and move the whole array, but this
2558happens asymptotically never with higher number of elements, so O(1) might
2559mean it might do a lengthy realloc operation in rare cases, but on average
2560it is much faster and asymptotically approaches constant time.
2561
2164=over 4 2562=over 4
2165 2563
2166=item Starting and stopping timer/periodic watchers: O(log skipped_other_timers) 2564=item Starting and stopping timer/periodic watchers: O(log skipped_other_timers)
2167 2565
2566This means that, when you have a watcher that triggers in one hour and
2567there are 100 watchers that would trigger before that then inserting will
2568have to skip those 100 watchers.
2569
2168=item Changing timer/periodic watchers (by autorepeat, again): O(log skipped_other_timers) 2570=item Changing timer/periodic watchers (by autorepeat, again): O(log skipped_other_timers)
2169 2571
2572That means that for changing a timer costs less than removing/adding them
2573as only the relative motion in the event queue has to be paid for.
2574
2170=item Starting io/check/prepare/idle/signal/child watchers: O(1) 2575=item Starting io/check/prepare/idle/signal/child watchers: O(1)
2171 2576
2577These just add the watcher into an array or at the head of a list.
2172=item Stopping check/prepare/idle watchers: O(1) 2578=item Stopping check/prepare/idle watchers: O(1)
2173 2579
2174=item Stopping an io/signal/child watcher: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_(fd/signal/pid % EV_PID_HASHSIZE)) 2580=item Stopping an io/signal/child watcher: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_(fd/signal/pid % EV_PID_HASHSIZE))
2175 2581
2582These watchers are stored in lists then need to be walked to find the
2583correct watcher to remove. The lists are usually short (you don't usually
2584have many watchers waiting for the same fd or signal).
2585
2176=item Finding the next timer per loop iteration: O(1) 2586=item Finding the next timer per loop iteration: O(1)
2177 2587
2178=item Each change on a file descriptor per loop iteration: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_fd) 2588=item Each change on a file descriptor per loop iteration: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_fd)
2179 2589
2590A change means an I/O watcher gets started or stopped, which requires
2591libev to recalculate its status (and possibly tell the kernel).
2592
2180=item Activating one watcher: O(1) 2593=item Activating one watcher: O(1)
2181 2594
2595=item Priority handling: O(number_of_priorities)
2596
2597Priorities are implemented by allocating some space for each
2598priority. When doing priority-based operations, libev usually has to
2599linearly search all the priorities.
2600
2182=back 2601=back
2183 2602
2184 2603
2185=head1 AUTHOR 2604=head1 AUTHOR
2186 2605

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