How to Execute a Function at Regular Intervals in Python?

Scheduling Periodic Tasks with Precision

Initial Query:

How can one execute a specific function at regular intervals, such as every 10 seconds?

Solution Using Timer:

To address this issue, consider utilizing Python's Timer class. Within the target function, instantiate a new Timer and configure it to call the same function after the desired time interval.

Implementation Example:

The following Python code exemplifies this approach:

import time, threading

def foo():
    print(time.ctime())
    threading.Timer(10, foo).start()

foo()

By calling itself at the end of each interval, the function ensures continuous execution without blocking other tasks. The output of the program might resemble:

Thu Dec 22 14:46:08 2011
Thu Dec 22 14:46:18 2011
Thu Dec 22 14:46:28 2011
Thu Dec 22 14:46:38 2011

Benefits of Timer-Based Scheduling:

• Precision: The function execution occurs at specified intervals, even under heavy system load.
• Non-Blocking: It allows other operations to proceed without waiting for the periodic function to complete.
• Thread Management: The Timer class handles thread creation and management, simplifying the scheduling process.

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