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Avinash1286

KiCAD MCP Server

by Avinash1286

Snap To Grid

snap_to_grid
Destructive

Snap schematic elements to the nearest grid point to fix off-grid connectivity that causes ERC errors in KiCAD, modifying the .kicad_sch file in place.

Instructions

Snap schematic element coordinates to the nearest grid point. KiCAD uses exact integer matching for connectivity, so off-grid coordinates cause wires that look connected to fail ERC checks. Modifies the .kicad_sch file in place. Does not require the KiCAD UI to be running.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
elementsNoElement types to snap (default: ["wires", "junctions", "labels"]). "components" is opt-in — moving a component without re-routing wires creates new mismatches.
gridSizeNoGrid spacing in mm (default: 1.27 mm = 50 mil, the KiCad connection grid; do NOT use 2.54 — snapping to a 100 mil grid moves pins off their 50 mil positions and breaks connectivity)
schematicPathYesPath to the .kicad_sch schematic file

Output Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
resultYes
Behavior4/5

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

Annotations already flag destructiveHint; the description adds specificity by stating it 'Modifies the .kicad_sch file in place' and notes that the KiCAD UI need not be running. It also explains the technical rationale for snapping, which goes beyond the annotation metadata.

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?

Three focused sentences with no redundancy. Each sentence adds value: what the tool does, why it matters, and key side-effects/prerequisites. The warning about grid size is embedded in the schema rather than bloating the description.

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

Completeness5/5

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

For a tool with a modest scope and rich schema, the description covers the essential context: purpose, rationale, in-place mutation, and lack of UI dependency. An output schema exists, so not describing return values is acceptable. The tool's complexity aligns well with the description's completeness.

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

Parameters3/5

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

Schema description coverage is 100%, and the schema already provides detailed descriptions for all parameters, including default values and the component opt-in caveat. The description does not add additional parameter semantics beyond what the schema offers, so baseline 3 is appropriate.

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?

Description specifies the action (snap), target (schematic element coordinates), and result (to nearest grid point). It also explains why this is needed (KiCAD's integer-based connectivity matching), clearly distinguishing it from general move/placement tools.

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

Usage Guidelines4/5

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

The description clearly implies when to use this tool: when off-grid elements may cause connectivity/ERC issues. It also notes that component snapping is opt-in due to potential mismatches. However, it does not explicitly name alternative tools (e.g., lint_offgrid for detection) or state 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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