alexa_set_alarm_volumeSet alarm and notification volume separately from media volume on any Echo device. Specify serial number and volume percentage to adjust.
Adjust alarm and notification volume level independently from media/music volume.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| volume | Yes | Alarm volume percentage (0 to 100) | |
| serialNumber | Yes | Serial number of the Echo device (use alexa_list_devices to find it) |
Changes observed during successful MCP inspections.
v1.2.0Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
No annotations are provided, so the description carries the behavioral transparency burden. It explains the tool adjusts both alarm and notification volume and keeps them separate from media volume, which is useful. However, it does not disclose side effects, persistence behavior, return value, or any device-specific caveats.
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 a single, focused sentence with no redundant wording. It front-loads the action and the key distinguishing behavior without unnecessary elaboration.
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 setter with two fully described required parameters, the description is largely sufficient. It could have mentioned what happens after the volume is set or whether the change persists, but these are minor gaps for this tool's simplicity.
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?
Schema description coverage is 100%, so the parameter meanings are already fully documented in the input schema. The description adds no parameter-specific detail beyond the schema, such as edge cases or volume format expectations.
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 uses a specific verb, 'Adjust,' and identifies the exact resource: alarm and notification volume. It also distinguishes this tool from the sibling alexa_set_volume by clarifying it operates independently from media/music volume.
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?
The phrase 'independently from media/music volume' gives clear contextual guidance that this tool is for alarm/notification volume, not general media volume. It does not explicitly name a sibling alternative like alexa_set_volume, but the intended usage is still evident.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.