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MCP Tool Extensions

MCP (Model Context Protocol) is Eidolon's tool extension mechanism. By configuring MCP servers, you can give AI additional capabilities like accessing databases, calling external APIs, and more.

For Advanced Users

MCP configuration requires some technical background. If you're unfamiliar with JSON configuration and command lines, feel free to skip this chapter.

What Is MCP?​

MCP is a standardized protocol that enables AI to call external tools. Think of it as installing "plugins" for AI:

  • Configure an MCP server = Add a new capability to AI
  • AI automatically decides when to call these tools during conversations
  • Tool execution results are returned to the conversation

Configuring MCP​

  1. Go to Settings → MCP
  2. Enter MCP configuration in the JSON editor
  3. Click Save
  4. Click Start to run the configured servers

Configuration Format​

{
  "mcpServers": {
    "server-name": {
      "command": "path/to/executable",
      "args": ["arg1", "arg2"],
      "env": {
        "ENV_VAR_NAME": "value"
      }
    }
  }
}

Configuration Example​

{
  "mcpServers": {
    "my-search": {
      "command": "npx",
      "args": ["-y", "@example/mcp-search"],
      "env": {
        "API_KEY": "your-api-key"
      }
    }
  }
}

Managing MCP Servers​

ActionDescription
Save ConfigSave JSON configuration locally
Start ServersRun all configured MCP servers
Stop ServersStop running MCP servers
View StatusCheck each server's running status

Security Notes​

warning
  • MCP servers run in your local environment — only configure servers you trust
  • Do not expose sensitive information (like API keys) in the configuration
  • Environment variable secrets are stored locally only and are not uploaded to the server

Common Issues​

MCP server failed to start?​

  • Check that the command path is correct
  • Confirm args parameters are correct
  • Verify environment variables are set completely

AI not calling MCP tools?​

  • Confirm the server is running
  • Try explicitly prompting AI to use a specific tool in conversation
  • Check that tool descriptions are clear