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Set up output

setup_output

Route any finished TOP to a display window, NDI stream, Syphon/Spout, disk recording, or Touch Out. Creates the correct output node and wiring, finalizing your TouchDesigner visual pipeline.

Instructions

Route a finished TOP to an output destination: a display window, NDI stream, Syphon/Spout, a recording, or Touch Out. Creates the matching output node ('out') under parent_path; for a window it points the Window COMP's winop at the source and sets its size, and for the other types it bridges the source in through a Select TOP (TD wires can't cross COMP boundaries). Typically the LAST step after building a visual — feed it the output Null from a create* tool or a create_layer_mixer. Returns the created output node path, the output type, the source path, and any non-fatal warnings (e.g. if wiring or window config failed).

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
resolutionNoWindow size for output_type='window' (720p=1280×720, 1080p=1920×1080, 4K=3840×2160); ignored by the other output types.1080p
output_typeNoDestination: 'window' (a Window COMP display), 'ndi' (NDI Out TOP network stream), 'syphon_spout' (Syphon/Spout Out TOP for other apps), 'record' (Movie File Out TOP to disk), or 'touch_out' (Touch Out TOP to another TD instance).window
parent_pathNoParent COMP path the output node (and any bridging Select TOP) is created inside./project1
source_pathYesPath of the final TOP to output.
record_formatNoFile format for output_type='record' (sets the Movie File Out TOP's type); ignored otherwise.
Behavior5/5

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

The description goes well beyond the annotations, explaining that a matching output node is created under parent_path, how window mode differs (points the Window COMP's winop), and why a Select TOP bridge is used for other types (TD wires can't cross COMP boundaries). It also discloses the return value including non-fatal warnings, which is valuable behavioral context.

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 dense but highly informative. Each sentence adds distinct value: destination list, per-type wiring logic, usage as last step, and return value. It is front-loaded with purpose and ends with outcome expectations, with no filler.

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 no output schema, the description fully covers what the agent needs to know: prerequisites, input expectations, node creation behavior, special cases for window vs other types, and return value semantics including warnings. It is complete for its moderate complexity.

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 coverage is 100% and each parameter has a description, so the baseline is 3. The description adds meaning by explaining the purpose of the source_path ('final TOP'), how output_type affects behavior (window vs NDI/Syphon/Spout/record/Touch Out), and what happens with the created node. This adds value beyond the enum labels.

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 opens with a specific action ('Route a finished TOP to an output destination') and enumerates five distinct destination types. It clearly differentiates itself from sibling tools like render_output or record_movie by covering the full output-routing step, including node creation and special wiring behavior.

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?

It explicitly states when to use this tool: 'Typically the LAST step after building a visual' and tells the agent to feed it the output Null from a create_* tool or create_layer_mixer. It does not explicitly mention when not to use it or name alternative tools, but the contextual guidance is clear and practical.

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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