agilent33500b_trigger

Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?

The description adds context beyond the annotations by using the word 'guarded' and specifying the precondition 'armed sweep or burst.' However, it does not explain the effects of triggering, potential errors, or the purpose of the confirm_trigger parameter. Given that annotations already indicate a non-read-only, non-destructive action, the description provides moderate additional behavioral context but not deep transparency.

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

The description is a single concise sentence that immediately states the action and target. It contains no filler or redundant information, making it efficient and easy to parse.

Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.

Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?

The tool has one parameter and an output schema, but the description leaves the parameter completely unexplained. While the core trigger action is clear, the missing parameter semantics creates a significant gap for an agent trying to correctly invoke the tool. The description is not complete enough for a tool with a non-obvious parameter.

Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.

Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?

The description does not mention the sole parameter, confirm_trigger, which is a boolean with a default of false. The schema also lacks a description for this parameter (schema_description_coverage is 0%). Since the parameter is not self-explanatory (it likely requires confirmation before triggering), the description fails to compensate for the missing schema information.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

The description clearly states the action: 'Send a guarded IEEE-488 bus trigger' and specifies the target: 'to an armed sweep or burst.' This uses a specific verb and resource, and distinguishes it from sibling tools like agilent33500b_configure_sweep or agilent33500b_set_waveform, which configure rather than trigger.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

The description implies when to use the tool by referencing 'an armed sweep or burst,' indicating the tool is for triggering after arming. However, it does not explicitly mention alternatives (e.g., using agilent33500b_write_scpi to send a *TRG command) or conditions when the tool should not be used, such as when no sweep/burst is armed.

Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.