Model Context Protocol server and live XML bridge for DipTrace
DipTrace MCP demonstrates solid domain-specific tool design with 20 well-named, verb-prefixed tools covering PCB/schematic analysis, library management, and BOM operations. All tools have descriptions (avg 95 chars, within 10-1024 range). Input schemas are present with typed parameters. However, output schemas are not documented in the provided source, parameter descriptions lack detail on constraints/formats, and error handling guidance is absent. Tool composition is strong (single responsibility, clear chaining via IDs), but descriptions could be more LLM-optimized per the 50-200 char baseline for A-grade tools.
Compare typed external BOM rows with normalized design records by RefDes.
Show server paths and the active DipTrace bridge session, if any.
Find components with missing or empty custom fields.
Return one strictly byte-bounded PCB page or a count-only summary.
Return a normalized schematic or PCB BOM with multi-part RefDes deduplication.
Return supported source types, adapters, limits and current feature availability.
Return document identity, type, version, size, sha256 and compatibility.
Output schemas not documented. Tool descriptions state what is returned (e.g., 'Return one strictly byte-bounded PCB page') but do not specify the JSON structure, field types, or pagination metadata. LLMs cannot plan downstream tool calls or extract data without knowing response shape.
Parameter descriptions lack constraint details. 'offset' and 'limit' parameters appear in multiple tools (e.g., query_builtin_library_catalog, query_library_items) but descriptions do not specify min/max bounds, defaults, or behavior when exceeded. Baseline: 100% of A+ tools document numeric ranges.
No error handling guidance. Tool descriptions do not indicate what errors are possible, whether they are retryable, or what the LLM should do next. E.g., validate_roundtrip_evidence and record_roundtrip_evidence do not explain failure modes or recovery steps.
| Scored | Grade | Overall | Spec posture | Rubric |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026-09-23 | C | 61 | 2025-06-18+ | v2 |
Get one normalized component-library item by stable id or exact name.
Get one normalized pattern-library item by stable id or exact name.
Return the normalized schematic model for a DipTrace schematic document.
Browse or search the installed DipTrace catalog without modifying native libraries.
Query normalized components or patterns in a standalone library.
Write a user-supplied evidence manifest and provenance sidecar, not design bytes.
Review BOM identity, DNP and value/pattern/MPN consistency.
Find standalone DipTrace Component Library XML files inside allowed roots.
Find standalone DipTrace Pattern Library XML files inside allowed roots.
Validate component pins, attached pattern and pin-to-pad mapping.
Validate pattern pad numbering, styles, geometry, holes and annular rings.
Validate component pin numbers against pads of its embedded attached pattern.
Validate distinct allowed-root evidence roles and exact SHA bindings without writing.
Complex parameter types (e.g., 'evidence' object in validate_roundtrip_evidence, 'external_records' array in compare_bom_to_design) lack inline schema documentation. Descriptions reference 'RoundtripEvidenceInput' and 'ExternalBomRecordInput' but do not define their structure inline or link to a schema reference.
Pagination not uniformly documented. Tools like get_board_model accept 'offset' and 'limit' but descriptions do not clarify total count return, next_cursor availability, or behavior at boundary conditions. Baseline: 100% of A+ tools document pagination contract.