Start with Show Errors
In Adobe Media Encoder, choose File > Show Errors. Adobe stores failed jobs and jobs stopped by the user in AMEEncodingErrorLog.txt. The newest entries are appended at the end of the file.
An entry in this file is therefore useful evidence, but it is not proof that Media Encoder encountered a technical failure. First confirm that the job failed rather than being stopped manually.
Where the log is stored
Adobe documents the log folder inside the current Media Encoder version directory:
- Windows:
C:\Users\[user]\Documents\Adobe\Adobe Media Encoder\[product version]\ - macOS:
/Users/[user]/Documents/Adobe/Adobe Media Encoder/[product version]/
Do not confuse AMEEncodingErrorLog.txt with AMEEncodingLog.txt. Adobe describes the latter as the log for successfully encoded jobs.
status → timestamp → timecode → component → exact messageKeep the newest relevant entry intact
- Confirm the job and timestamp. Match the newest relevant entry to the export you just attempted.
- Copy the exact wording. Preserve any error code, component, exporter, output path, timecode, or Selector instead of rewriting it from memory.
- Separate facts from hypotheses. A named component or timecode points to where you should test; it does not always identify the root cause.
Choose the smallest test the entry supports
- A timecode is present: duplicate the sequence and export only 5–10 seconds around that point.
- The output folder is missing: recreate or select an existing local destination. Adobe notes that Media Encoder cannot encode when the selected output folder no longer exists.
- Media, font, effect, or overlay files are reported missing: inspect that exact dependency before changing the export preset. Media Encoder can flag these items before encoding.
- The message mentions accelerated rendering: use the Accelerated Renderer Error test at the reported timecode.
- The message points to an importer or codec: identify the source codec and use the Unsupported Compression Type workflow.
When the entry remains generic, return to the first controlled tests for a failed Premiere Pro export. Change one variable at a time and record the result.
What the log cannot prove
A log entry can preserve evidence without naming one certain cause. An unknown Selector, component, or module remains a clue until a controlled test changes the outcome. Do not delete media, replace effects across the project, or rebuild the sequence solely from a single line in the log.
Import the log into Export Doctor
Export Doctor can read an imported AMEEncodingErrorLog.txt locally and compare its evidence with the active timeline. It distinguishes usable failure evidence from stopped, successful, or unrecognized log content, then suggests a short test. The plugin is read-only and does not upload or modify the project.
Frequently asked questions
Where is AMEEncodingErrorLog.txt stored?
In the Media Encoder version folder inside your Documents/Adobe directory. You can also access it through File > Show Errors.
Does the file prove that an export failed?
No. Adobe says it also records jobs stopped by the user. Verify the job status and timestamp first.
Should I change several export settings immediately?
No. Preserve the entry, duplicate the sequence or project, and change one variable in a short controlled test.
Limits and sources
Adobe does not publish a universal dictionary mapping every Media Encoder message, component, or Selector to one guaranteed repair. The workflow above prioritizes evidence and reversible tests.
Official sources, verified August 10, 2026: Adobe Media Encoder log files and encoding and export status in Adobe Media Encoder.