CMutex Class
Represents a "mutex" — a synchronization object that allows one thread mutually exclusive access to a resource.
class CMutex : public CSyncObject
Members
Public Constructors
Name |
Description |
|---|---|
Constructs a CMutex object. |
Remarks
Mutexes are useful when only one thread at a time can be allowed to modify data or some other controlled resource. For example, adding nodes to a linked list is a process that should only be allowed by one thread at a time. By using a CMutex object to control the linked list, only one thread at a time can gain access to the list.
To use a CMutex object, construct the CMutex object when it is needed. Specify the name of the mutex you wish to wait on, and that your application should initially own it. You can then access the mutex when the constructor returns. Call CSyncObject::Unlock when you are done accessing the controlled resource.
An alternative method for using CMutex objects is to add a variable of type CMutex as a data member to the class you wish to control. During construction of the controlled object, call the constructor of the CMutex data member specifying if the mutex is initially owned, the name of the mutex (if it will be used across process boundaries), and desired security attributes.
To access resources controlled by CMutex objects in this manner, first create a variable of either type CSingleLock or type CMultiLock in your resource's access member function. Then call the lock object's Lock member function (for example, CSingleLock::Lock). At this point, your thread will either gain access to the resource, wait for the resource to be released and gain access, or wait for the resource to be released and time out, failing to gain access to the resource. In any case, your resource has been accessed in a thread-safe manner. To release the resource, use the lock object's Unlock member function (for example, CSingleLock::Unlock), or allow the lock object to fall out of scope.
For more information on using CMutex objects, see the article Multithreading: How to Use the Synchronization Classes.
Inheritance Hierarchy
CMutex
Requirements
Header: afxmt.h