# After Effects Setup Guide
You have two options for connecting After Effects to the MCP server:
## Option 1: CEP Extension (Recommended)
### Install the Extension
1. **Run the installer script:**
```bash
cd /Users/harathom/workplace/external/ae-mcp
./install-extension.sh
```
2. **Restart After Effects**
3. **Open the extension:**
- Window > Extensions > AE MCP Bridge
- Click "Connect" in the panel
### Troubleshooting CEP
If the extension doesn't appear:
1. **Run the diagnostic script:**
- File > Scripts > Run Script File
- Select `diagnose-cep.jsx`
- Check the report for issues
2. **Verify script permissions:**
- Preferences > Scripting & Expressions
- ✅ "Allow Scripts to Write Files and Access Network"
3. **Check debug console:**
- Open Chrome/Edge
- Navigate to `http://localhost:8088/`
- Look for the extension
## Option 2: ExtendScript Bridge (Simpler)
If CEP doesn't work, use this alternative:
1. **Open After Effects**
2. **Run the socket bridge script:**
- File > Scripts > Run Script File
- Select `ae-socket-bridge.jsx`
3. **Start the server:**
- Click "Start Server" in the dialog
- Leave the dialog open while using MCP
### Benefits of ExtendScript Bridge:
- No installation required
- Works immediately
- Shows real-time logs
- Easier to debug
### Limitations:
- Must keep dialog window open
- Need to restart manually each session
## Verify Connection
Once connected (either method), the MCP server should be able to communicate with After Effects.
Check the logs:
```bash
tail -f /Users/harathom/workplace/external/ae-mcp/ae-mcp-server.log
```
## Which Method to Use?
- **CEP Extension**: Best for production use, runs in background
- **ExtendScript Bridge**: Best for testing or if CEP has issues
Both methods work with the same MCP server configuration.
