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Create beat-grid sequencer

create_beat_grid_sequencer

Build a step-grid sequencer that triggers parameter changes or cue recalls on each beat step, controlled by a pattern table.

Instructions

Build a programmable step-grid sequencer driven by a Beat CHOP on the global TD tempo: a Table DAT holds the per-step pattern (values or 1/0 flags), and a CHOP Execute DAT fires on every beat boundary, reads the current step (count % steps) from the table, and dispatches — action=param sets a custom parameter to the step value; action=cue recalls the cue for active steps (cues stored with manage_cue). The deterministic, repeating-rhythm instrument between create_autopilot (random drift) and create_cue_sequencer (linear list): program a strobe on beats 1+3, a hue shift on the bar, etc. Reprogramme the grid live by editing the step_table DAT. NOTE: beat-callback timing is UNVERIFIED offline — check op().time.play if steps don't fire when the TD timeline is paused.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
nameNoName for the sequencer COMP.beat_grid
parent_pathNoParent COMP path to create the sequencer inside./project1
targetYesCOMP whose parameter or cue each active step fires on a beat boundary.
stepsNoNumber of steps in the grid (e.g. 16 = one bar of 16th notes at 4/4).
actionNoparam: set a target custom-parameter value per active step; cue: recall a named cue per active step (cues stored with manage_cue).param
paramNo(action=param) The custom-parameter name on the target COMP to set on each active step.
patternNoPer-step values (action=param) or 1/0 active flags (action=cue); length should match 'steps'. Omit to auto-generate an example pattern.
bpm_sourceNoPath to an existing Beat CHOP or tempo source. Omit to create a new Beat CHOP (on the global TD tempo).
Behavior4/5

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

Annotations indicate readOnlyHint=false and destructiveHint=false, so the description must add behavioral context. It details the internal mechanism (Table DAT, CHOP Execute DAT), explains actions (param/cue), and warns about offline timing. However, it does not explicitly state that the tool creates operators in the network or list potential side effects beyond the sequencer itself.

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

Conciseness3/5

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

The description is a single long paragraph mixing purpose, mechanism, examples, and warnings. While all information is relevant, it lacks clear structure (e.g., bullets or sections) that would improve readability for an AI agent. It is somewhat verbose for the complexity.

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 the tool creates a sequencer component, the description does not state the return value or output (e.g., path of created COMP). It covers main use cases and warnings but omits what the agent can expect as a result. With no output schema, this gap reduces completeness.

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

Parameters4/5

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

Schema description coverage is 100%, so the schema documents each parameter. The description adds value by explaining how parameters relate to the mechanism (e.g., pattern values vs 1/0 flags for param vs cue actions) and connects to external concepts like manage_cue. This goes beyond the schema's individual descriptions.

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 'Build a programmable step-grid sequencer' and distinguishes it from siblings by positioning it as a deterministic repeating-rhythm instrument between create_autopilot (random drift) and create_cue_sequencer (linear list). Specific examples like strobe on beats 1+3 and hue shift on the bar further clarify the purpose.

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

Usage Guidelines5/5

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

The description explicitly states when to use this tool versus alternatives: 'deterministic, repeating-rhythm instrument between create_autopilot (random drift) and create_cue_sequencer (linear list)'. It also includes a crucial caveat about offline timing ('beat-callback timing is UNVERIFIED offline') guiding when the tool may not work correctly.

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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