lock_via
Lock or unlock a specific via in the PCB layout to prevent accidental modifications.
Instructions
Lock or unlock a via.
Input Schema
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| locked | Yes | ||
| via_id | Yes |
Lock or unlock a specific via in the PCB layout to prevent accidental modifications.
Lock or unlock a via.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| locked | Yes | ||
| via_id | Yes |
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
No annotations are present, and the description gives no information about side effects, required permissions, or behavior beyond the basic action. For a mutation tool, this is insufficient.
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 extremely short but lacks essential details, making it under-specified rather than concise. It could usefully include the boolean semantics without being verbose.
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?
For a simple two-parameter tool with no annotations or output schema, the description should at minimum explain the locked parameter and the effect of locking. It fails to provide a complete picture.
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?
With 0% schema coverage and no description of parameters, the agent cannot infer that 'locked' likely accepts true/false to specify lock state, or that 'via_id' identifies the via. The meaning of the boolean is ambiguous.
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 'Lock or unlock a via' clearly states the verb (lock/unlock) and the resource (via). It implicitly distinguishes from sibling lock tools targeting different objects like footprints or tracks.
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?
No guidance on when to use this tool versus other lock tools or when to lock vs unlock. The description provides no context or alternatives.
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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