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nanokvm_send_key

Send keyboard input to remotely control servers and headless machines via NanoKVM hardware, supporting single keys, modifiers, and function keys for BIOS-level management.

Instructions

Send a single key press to the target machine.

Args:
    key: Key to press. Can be:
        - Named keys: enter, escape, tab, backspace, delete, space
        - Function keys: f1, f2, ..., f12
        - Arrow keys: up, down, left, right
        - Navigation: home, end, pageup, pagedown, insert
        - Single characters: a, b, 1, 2, etc.
    ctrl: Hold Ctrl modifier
    shift: Hold Shift modifier
    alt: Hold Alt modifier
    meta: Hold Meta/Windows/Command modifier

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
keyYes
ctrlNo
shiftNo
altNo
metaNo

Output Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
resultYes
Behavior2/5

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

With no annotations provided, the description carries full burden but only covers basic functionality. It doesn't disclose important behavioral aspects like whether this requires the target machine to be powered on, what happens if the key press fails, whether there are rate limits, or what the output contains. The description is minimal beyond stating the core action.

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

Conciseness5/5

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

The description is perfectly structured and economical. The first sentence states the core purpose, followed by a clearly labeled 'Args:' section with bullet-point explanations for each parameter. Every sentence earns its place with no wasted words or redundant information.

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

Completeness3/5

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

Given that there's an output schema (which handles return values) and no annotations, the description does an adequate job for a simple action tool. However, for a tool that interacts with a remote machine, it should ideally mention prerequisites (e.g., machine must be powered on) and potential failure modes. The parameter documentation is excellent, but behavioral context is lacking.

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

Parameters5/5

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

The schema has 0% description coverage, but the description provides comprehensive semantic information for all 5 parameters. It explains the 'key' parameter with detailed examples of valid values (named keys, function keys, arrows, navigation, single characters) and clarifies that the four boolean parameters (ctrl, shift, alt, meta) are modifier keys that can be held during the key press. This adds substantial value beyond the bare schema.

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

Purpose5/5

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

The description clearly states the specific action ('send a single key press') and target ('to the target machine'), distinguishing it from sibling tools like nanokvm_send_text (for text input) or nanokvm_click (for mouse actions). The verb+resource combination is precise and unambiguous.

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

Usage Guidelines3/5

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

The description implies usage for keyboard input to a remote machine, but doesn't explicitly state when to use this versus alternatives like nanokvm_send_text (for multi-character input) or nanokvm_tap (for mouse clicks). No guidance is provided about prerequisites, error conditions, or when not to use this tool.

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

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