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PHP pcntl_sigtimedwait() Function: Usage and Examples

Learn how to uses pcntl_sigtimedwait to process its supported input in PHP with syntax, practical examples, edge cases, and common mistakes.

2 views Published Oct 16, 2026 Updated Oct 16, 2026

When a PHP application needs to uses pcntl_sigtimedwait to process its supported input, choosing the right API and checking its results helps keep code understandable and dependable. This guide explains pcntl_sigtimedwait with focused examples and important details.

What Is pcntl_sigtimedwait in PHP?

pcntl_sigtimedwait uses pcntl_sigtimedwait to process its supported input. Requires the PCNTL extension on a supported Unix system. Block the intended signal and distinguish timeout from received signals.

Syntax:

pcntl_sigtimedwait(signals, info, seconds, nanoseconds) : int|false

Parameters and return value: Parameters: <required> array $signals; <optional> &$info = []; <optional> int $seconds = 0; <optional> int $nanoseconds = 0. Check the return value or modified object rather than assuming the operation always succeeds.

Important: The code examples use representative input rather than production credentials. Confirm that the required PHP extension is installed.

Example 1: Basic Usage

Start with a compact input so the main operation is visible.

<?php

if (function_exists("pcntl_sigtimedwait")) { echo "pcntl available"; }

Uses pcntl_sigtimedwait to process its supported input. Requires the PCNTL extension on a supported Unix system. Block the intended signal and distinguish timeout from received signals.

Example 2: A Different Input

The next example changes the input or option to illustrate another behavior.

<?php

if (function_exists("pcntl_sigprocmask")) { echo "Signal API available"; }

Compare this result with the first example. Requires the PCNTL extension on a supported Unix system. Block the intended signal and distinguish timeout from received signals.

Practical Example: Applying the Function

This example combines the API with a realistic processing step and shows where to check its result.

<?php

if (function_exists("pcntl_sigtimedwait") && function_exists("pcntl_sigprocmask")) {
    pcntl_sigprocmask(SIG_BLOCK, [SIGUSR1]);
    $info = [];
    $signal = pcntl_sigtimedwait([SIGUSR1], $info, 1, 0);
    var_dump($signal);
}

Adapt the inputs to your application and validate the output before storing or displaying it. Requires the PCNTL extension on a supported Unix system. Block the intended signal and distinguish timeout from received signals.

Important Behavior and Edge Cases

  • Main purpose: Uses pcntl_sigtimedwait to process its supported input.
  • Errors and boundaries: Requires the PCNTL extension on a supported Unix system. Block the intended signal and distinguish timeout from received signals.
  • Environment: The code examples use representative input rather than production credentials. Confirm that the required PHP extension is installed.

Comparison With Related Functions

Function or ApproachWhen to Use It
pcntl_sigtimedwaitUses pcntl_sigtimedwait to process its supported input.
Related PHP functionsConsider this alternative when you need different behavior or a different abstraction.

Common Beginner Mistakes

MistakeCorrect Approach
Assuming the operation succeeds for every inputRequires the PCNTL extension on a supported Unix system. Block the intended signal and distinguish timeout from received signals.
Ignoring runtime requirements or variable outputThe code examples use representative input rather than production credentials. Confirm that the required PHP extension is installed.
Using the wrong API for the goalCompare pcntl_sigtimedwait with Related PHP functions before selecting an approach.

Key Takeaways

  • Uses pcntl_sigtimedwait to process its supported input.
  • Requires the PCNTL extension on a supported Unix system. Block the intended signal and distinguish timeout from received signals.
  • The code examples use representative input rather than production credentials. Confirm that the required PHP extension is installed.

Use pcntl_sigtimedwait when you need to uses pcntl_sigtimedwait to process its supported input. The three examples move from a simple call to a practical use. Validate all external input and handle failures explicitly.

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