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ftc-mcp

MCP server that gives AI coding assistants deep knowledge of the FTC Robot Controller ecosystem. Enables teams to "vibe code" their robots through natural language while producing correct, optimized, competition-ready Java code.

The problem: AI assistants hallucinate wrong Pedro Pathing APIs (training data is outdated), don't know the @Config + public static dashboard pattern, use wrong import paths, and can't see your project structure.

The fix: This MCP server injects 9,500+ lines of verified FTC documentation, API references, and working code examples directly into your AI assistant's context.

One-Click Install

Install in Cursor

Claude Code

claude mcp add ftc -- npx ftc-mcp

Cursor (Manual)

Or use the one-click button above.

Add to ~/.cursor/mcp.json:

{
  "mcpServers": {
    "ftc": {
      "command": "npx",
      "args": ["-y", "ftc-mcp"]
    }
  }
}

VS Code (Copilot)

Install in VS Code

Or add to .vscode/mcp.json:

{
  "servers": {
    "ftc": {
      "command": "npx",
      "args": ["-y", "ftc-mcp"]
    }
  }
}

Windsurf

Add to your Windsurf MCP config:

{
  "mcpServers": {
    "ftc": {
      "command": "npx",
      "args": ["-y", "ftc-mcp"]
    }
  }
}

Any MCP Client (.mcp.json)

Drop this file in your project root:

{
  "mcpServers": {
    "ftc": {
      "command": "npx",
      "args": ["-y", "ftc-mcp"]
    }
  }
}

From Source

git clone https://github.com/jackulau/ftcMCP.git
cd ftcMCP
npm install
npm run build

# Then add to your AI client:
claude mcp add ftc -- node /path/to/ftcMCP/build/index.js

Related MCP server: OmniDocs MCP

What It Provides

49 Resources (Documentation)

Contextual docs the AI pulls in when writing FTC code:

Category

Resources

Coverage

Pedro Pathing 2.1

7

Complete API (Follower, PathBuilder, PathChain, BezierLine/Curve), Constants builder pattern, coordinate system [0,144], auto FSM structure, TeleOp drive, callbacks, v2.1 release notes (predictive braking, swerve, auto-offsets tuner)

FTC Dashboard

6

@Config + public static pattern, copy semantics pitfall, MultipleTelemetry, TelemetryPacket, Canvas field overlay API, camera streaming, setup

Panels (by Lazar)

8

Overview & comparison with FTC Dashboard, setup & Gradle config, @Configurable live tuning, PanelsTelemetry, PanelsField canvas drawing, Limelight proxy, plugin architecture, gamepad support

Gradle

5

Project file structure, adding libraries step-by-step, exact Maven coordinates for every library, common issues (compileSdk 34 for Pedro), build process

Hardware

17

DcMotor/DcMotorEx full API, RunModes, motor specs (every goBILDA/REV CPR), servos, IMU, distance/color/touch sensors, encoders (port 0+3 vs 1+2), GoBilda Pinpoint, SparkFun OTOS, REV Hub internals, bulk reads, CachingHardware, custom wrapper patterns, VisionPortal + Limelight

Core SDK

5

OpMode lifecycle (iterative vs linear), hardwareMap patterns, gamepad API, best practices

Road Runner

1

Actions API, TrajectoryActionBuilder

FTCLib

1

Command-based framework, GamepadEx, triggers

MCP Spec Compliance

Feature

Status

Protocol version

2025-11-25 (latest)

tools capability

✓ with outputSchema + structuredContent + annotations

resources capability

✓ template-based (9 categories, 1 template each)

prompts capability

✓ all 11 prompts use registerPrompt

completions capability

✓ prompt args + resource template {topic} autocomplete

logging capability

✓ declared, available for client-subscribed diagnostics

3 Tools (context-optimized, SDK 1.29 with outputSchema + structuredContent)

Tool

What It Does

scan_project

Scans your TeamCode directory -- detects SDK version, installed libraries (Pedro, Dashboard, Panels, RoadRunner, FTCLib, SolversLib, CachingHardware), existing OpModes, hardware devices, and Pedro Constants. Returns typed structuredContent. Call at the start of every session.

search_knowledge

Single entry point for the entire knowledge base. Tries exact example match → device API reference → full-text search across all categories.

validate_ftc_code

Checks code for common FTC mistakes: missing follower.update(), @Config with final, Thread.sleep in iterative OpMode, Pedro v1 imports, copy semantics, bulk-cache misuse, SolversLib/FTCLib coexistence, gamepad Y inversion, CommandOpMode super.run() gaps. Returns typed structuredContent with severity-classified issues.

10 Complete Code Examples

Every example is a full, compilable Java file with package declaration, all imports, and working code:

Topic

Description

pedro-auto

Pedro Pathing autonomous with FSM state machine, path callbacks, @Config tunable poses, field overlay

pedro-teleop

Pedro TeleOp with setTeleOpDrive(), slow mode, bulk reads, loop timer

pedro-constants

Complete Constants.java with FollowerConstants, MecanumConstants, PinpointConstants builders

dashboard-config

@Config demonstration with correct/wrong copy semantics examples

bulk-reads

Optimized OpMode with LynxModule MANUAL + CachingHardware

subsystem

Hardware subsystem class with @Config positions, state methods

pid-tuning

Live PID tuning with dashboard-graphed error/output

vision-pipeline

VisionPortal + AprilTag processor with dashboard camera stream

custom-pid-drive

Encoder-based autonomous with IMU heading PID (no pathing library)

field-centric-drive

Field-centric mecanum TeleOp using IMU

11 Workflow Prompts

Structured instructions that guide the AI through complex FTC tasks:

Prompt

Description

setup-ftc-project

Guided project init: choose pathing lib, configure Gradle, add dashboard

create-autonomous

Full auto creation: poses, paths, FSM, callbacks, dashboard telemetry

create-teleop

TeleOp: drive type, subsystems, gamepad bindings, slow mode

create-subsystem

Hardware subsystem with @Config tuning, state methods

tune-pid

PID tuning with dashboard live graphing

optimize-performance

Bulk reads, CachingHardware, loop timer, I2C reduction

add-dashboard-tuning

Add @Config live-tunable variables to existing code

setup-command-based

Command-based project with SolversLib: subsystems, commands, gamepad bindings

build-and-deploy

Build + deploy workflow for VS Code, Android Studio, IntelliJ, or CLI

setup-vision

VisionPortal + Limelight 3A: AprilTag and color detection

setup-gradle

Configure Gradle deps for any combination of FTC libraries

Supported Libraries

Library

Version

Knowledge Depth

FTC SDK

11.1.0

Full hardware API, OpMode lifecycle, gamepad, telemetry

Pedro Pathing

2.1.2

Complete v2.0+ API with builder patterns; v2.1 notes for predictive braking + swerve (NOT the outdated v1.x)

FTC Dashboard

0.5.1

@Config, MultipleTelemetry, Canvas, camera streaming

Panels

1.0.12

@Configurable, PanelsTelemetry, PanelsField, Limelight proxy, plugin architecture, gamepads, capture/replay

Road Runner

1.0.x

Actions API, TrajectoryActionBuilder

CachingHardware

1.0.0

Write caching algorithm, drop-in wrappers

FTCLib

2.1.1

Command-based framework, GamepadEx

Supported Hardware

Full API documentation and initialization patterns for:

  • Motors: DcMotor, DcMotorEx, all RunModes, PIDF coefficients, every goBILDA/REV/NeveRest motor with exact CPR

  • Servos: Servo, ServoImplEx (PWM range), CRServo, power pairing rules

  • Sensors: REV IMU, Color Sensor V3, 2m Distance Sensor, Touch Sensor, Through Bore Encoder

  • Localizers: goBILDA Pinpoint (full driver API, offsets, status enum), SparkFun OTOS (scalars, calibration)

  • Vision: VisionPortal, AprilTagProcessor, Limelight 3A

  • REV Hub: LynxModule bulk reads (OFF/AUTO/MANUAL), I2C timing, encoder port hardware vs software decoding

Example Vibe Coding Sessions

"Set up my project with Pedro Pathing and Dashboard"

AI calls scan_project -> reads ftc://gradle/all-library-coords -> edits build.dependencies.gradle with exact repos and versions -> changes compileSdk to 34 -> creates Constants.java with builder pattern

"Create an autonomous that scores 3 samples"

AI reads ftc://pedro/api-reference + ftc://pedro/auto-structure -> generates complete OpMode with @Config tunable poses, FSM state machine, path callbacks, MultipleTelemetry, field overlay

"My loop times are slow"

AI reads ftc://hardware/bulk-reads + ftc://hardware/caching-hardware -> adds LynxModule MANUAL + CachingDcMotorEx + loop timer telemetry

"Add a dashboard variable so I can tune arm position"

AI reads ftc://dashboard/config-pattern -> adds @Config class with public static double ARM_POSITION = 0.5; -> warns about reading it fresh each loop (copy semantics)

Project Structure

ftc-mcp/
├── src/
│   ├── index.ts                  # Entry point (stdio transport)
│   ├── server.ts                 # McpServer setup
│   ├── knowledge/
│   │   ├── pedro.ts              # Pedro Pathing 2.0 (1,550 lines)
│   │   ├── hardware.ts           # Full hardware stack (1,479 lines)
│   │   ├── examples.ts           # 10 complete code examples (1,396 lines)
│   │   ├── ftc-sdk.ts            # SDK patterns (881 lines)
│   │   ├── dashboard.ts          # FTC Dashboard (845 lines)
│   │   ├── panels.ts             # Panels by Lazar — all-in-one dashboard
│   │   ├── ftclib.ts             # FTCLib framework (636 lines)
│   │   ├── gradle.ts             # Gradle build system (584 lines)
│   │   └── roadrunner.ts         # Road Runner (478 lines)
│   ├── resources/registry.ts     # 41 resource URI registrations
│   ├── tools/registry.ts         # 6 tool implementations
│   └── prompts/registry.ts       # 8 workflow prompts
├── package.json
└── tsconfig.json

Development

npm install
npm run build          # Compile TypeScript
npm run dev            # Watch mode
npm start              # Run the server

Requirements

  • Node.js >= 18

  • An MCP-compatible AI client (Claude Code, Cursor, VS Code Copilot, etc.)

License

MIT

Available Tools

3 tools
scan_projectScan FTC ProjectA
Read-only

Scan FTC project for SDK version, libraries, OpModes, hardware devices, and structure. Use at session start.

ParametersJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
projectPathYesFTC project root path

Output Schema

ParametersJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescription
buildDependenciesGradleYes
compileSdkVersionYes
librariesYes
teamCodeDirYes
javaFilesYes
opModesYes
configClassesYes
hardwareDevicesYes
usesPedroYes
usesRoadRunnerYes
usesSolversLibYes
usesFtcLibYes
usesCommandBaseYes
usesPanelsYes
hasFollowerConstantsYes
hasMecanumConstantsYes
errorNo

TDQS

A4/5.0
Behavior3/5

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

Annotations already declare readOnlyHint=true, so the description's lack of mutation disclosure is acceptable. It adds value by listing what is scanned (SDK, libraries, etc.), but does not mention any other behavioral traits like performance or side effects. Adequate but not exceptional.

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 a single sentence plus a usage note, with no wasted words. The verb 'Scan' is front-loaded, efficiently conveying the action and scope.

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

Completeness4/5

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

Given the simplicity (1 param, output schema exists, siblings clear), the description covers the tool's purpose and timing. It lacks explicit mention that projectPath must be an existing directory, but overall provides sufficient context for a straightforward scan tool.

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?

The schema has 100% coverage for the single parameter 'projectPath' with a description. The tool description does not add further meaning beyond what the schema provides, so baseline score of 3 applies.

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 tool scans an FTC project for specific elements (SDK version, libraries, OpModes, etc.) and distinguishes from siblings like search_knowledge and validate_ftc_code. The verb 'scan' with resource 'FTC project' and listed specifics define a unique purpose.

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 instruction 'Use at session start' provides clear timing guidance. While alternatives are not explicitly mentioned, the siblings are distinct in purpose, reducing confusion. No exclusions or when-not-to-use are given, but the context is sufficient for a simple tool.

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

search_knowledgeSearch FTC KnowledgeA
Read-only

Search FTC knowledge base. Finds documentation, code examples, and hardware API references.

ParametersJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
queryYesSearch query, example topic, or device name

TDQS

A3.6/5.0
Behavior3/5

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

Description adds context about content types beyond the readOnlyHint annotation but omits details like return format, pagination, or rate limits. It does not contradict annotations.

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?

Two concise, front-loaded sentences with no redundant information. Every word adds value.

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

Completeness4/5

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

For a simple search tool with one parameter and no output schema, the description adequately covers purpose and scope. However, it could improve by hinting at result behavior (e.g., returns relevant snippets).

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?

The single parameter 'query' is fully described in the schema (100% coverage). The tool description adds no extra semantic value, so baseline score of 3 applies.

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 clearly states the verb 'Search' and resource 'FTC knowledge base'. It lists specific content types (documentation, code examples, hardware API references) that distinguish it from sibling tools like scan_project and validate_ftc_code.

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

Usage Guidelines2/5

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

No explicit guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives. The description does not mention when to prefer search_knowledge over scan_project or validate_ftc_code, making it ambiguous for an agent to decide.

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

validate_ftc_codeValidate FTC CodeA
Read-only

Validate FTC Java code for common mistakes and anti-patterns.

ParametersJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
codeYesJava code to validate

Output Schema

ParametersJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescription
okYes
issueCountYes
issuesYes

TDQS

A3.8/5.0
Behavior3/5

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

Annotations already declare readOnlyHint true and openWorldHint false. The description adds that it checks for common mistakes and anti-patterns, but lacks details on validation specifics (e.g., error reporting style).

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?

A single sentence, front-loaded, with no wasted words.

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

Completeness4/5

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

Given low complexity (one param, output schema exists, annotations present), the description is fairly complete, though it could mention the output format.

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?

With 100% schema coverage and only one parameter clearly described in the schema, the description adds minimal value beyond 'Java code to validate'.

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 tool validates FTC Java code for common mistakes and anti-patterns, distinguishing it from siblings like scan_project and search_knowledge.

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 validating FTC code but does not explicitly provide when to use or when not to use compared to sibling tools.

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

Tool Schema Changelog

Recent tool additions, removals, and schema changes observed during successful MCP inspections. Dates show when Glama detected each change.

  1. 3 tool updatesv1.3.1
    • First observedscan_project
    • First observedsearch_knowledge
    • First observedvalidate_ftc_code

TDQS

A4.1/5.0
Disambiguation5/5

Each tool has a clearly distinct purpose: scanning a project, searching knowledge, and validating code. No overlap exists.

Naming Consistency5/5

All tool names follow a consistent verb_noun pattern with snake_case, making them predictable and easy to understand.

Tool Count5/5

Three tools is appropriate for the focused domain of FTC project analysis, covering key tasks without excess.

Completeness5/5

The tool set covers the essential actions for an FTC development assistant: initial project scan, knowledge search, and code validation. No obvious gaps.

Maintenance

ActivityInactive
ResponsivenessNo issues

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