Establishes a connection to a Vivado hw_server (cs_server) so hardware targets can be accessed, defaulting to localhost:3121 when no URL is given.
Connect to a hw_server (cs_server). Default URL is localhost:3121 — the value Vivado uses when running hw_server locally.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| url | No | host:port (default: localhost:3121) |
Changes observed during successful MCP inspections.
v0.5.0Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
No annotations are provided, so the description carries the full behavioral burden. It reveals the default URL, but it does not state whether connection is persistent, idempotent, authenticated, what happens if a server is already connected, or what the call returns.
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 definition is two short sentences with the core operation front-loaded. The default URL context is compact and does not distract from the main action.
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 connection tool with no annotations and no output schema, the description omits important lifecycle context: whether a handle is returned, how this relates to open_hw_manager, whether repeated calls are safe, and what errors may occur. It is too thin for an agent to invoke with full confidence.
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 coverage is 100%, and the single optional url parameter is already documented in the schema. The description reinforces the default localhost:3121 value and adds minor Vivado context, but no additional syntax or format guidance beyond the schema.
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 states a clear verb and resource: connecting to a hw_server, also aliased as cs_server. It is not tautological, but it does not distinguish this operation from nearby siblings such as open_hw_manager or session-related tools.
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 description gives the default URL but does not explain when to use this tool versus open_hw_manager, start_session, or other connection/session tools. There are no preconditions, exclusions, or workflow guidance.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.