Using Anthropic's Model Context Protocol with ashra

The Model Context Protocol (MCP) is an exciting new standard developed by Anthropic that allows AI models like Claude to seamlessly interact with external tools and data sources. It provides a structured way for AI assistants to access real-world information and capabilities while maintaining security and reliability.

What Makes MCP Special?

MCP stands out because it:

Enables AI models to access external tools and data in a controlled way
Provides a standardized interface for tool integration
Ensures security through strict protocol definitions
Makes AI assistants more capable and practical

How ashra Uses MCP

We've built an MCP server for ashra that allows Claude to directly interact with our data extraction capabilities. This integration brings several key benefits:

1. Natural Interaction

Instead of copying and pasting API calls, you can simply tell Claude what data you want to extract from a website. The conversation feels natural while still maintaining the structured output that makes ashra powerful.

2. Contextual Understanding

Claude understands the context of your data extraction needs and can help suggest the right schema and approach. It's like having an expert guide you through using ashra.

3. Real-time Assistance

The MCP integration means Claude can:

Help debug extraction issues
Suggest schema improvements
Explain results
Modify requests based on your needs

Using ashra with Claude

Getting started is simple:

Install Claude Desktop
Configure the ashra MCP server
Start chatting with Claude about your data extraction needs

Claude will handle all the technical details of calling the ashra API and formatting the results. It's like having a knowledgeable developer partner who knows exactly how to use ashra effectively.

Try It Out (Early Development)

To try out the ashra MCP integration with Claude:

Download and install Claude Desktop

Create or modify your Claude configuration file:

// ~/Library/Application Support/Claude/claude_desktop_config.json
{
  "mcpServers": {
    "ashra": {
      "command": "node",
      "args": ["<path-to-ashra-mcp>/build/index.js"]
    }
  }
}

Clone and build the ashra MCP server:

git clone https://github.com/getrupt/ashra-mcp
cd ashra-mcp
yarn install
yarn build

Start a conversation with Claude and try something like: "Can you help me extract the top posts from Hacker News using ashra?"

Note: This integration is currently in early development. Some features may be limited or change as we improve the implementation. We'd love to hear your feedback as you try it out!

For troubleshooting help, check out the MCP server documentation or reach out to our team.

Using Anthropic's Model Context Protocol and Claude with ashra