What is MIME type "application/dec-dx."?

A MIME type is a string that tells browsers and other tools how to handle a particular kind of file.

The MIME type application/dec-dx is assigned to files that hold data in a binary format used by Digital Equipment Corporation systems.
It provides a standard way to package and transport system data across DEC applications.
This format often contains configuration details, simulation data, or other system information specific to DEC environments.

Main Use: Coordinating data exchange between DEC software and legacy systems.
Additional Uses: Archiving system configurations and exporting/importing data within DEC applications.

Files using this MIME type are typically labeled with the extension DX.
For additional background on Digital Equipment Corporation, visit DEC History.

Associated file extensions

.dx

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

When serving content with this MIME type, set the Content-Type header:


    Content-Type: application/dec-dx.

HTML

In HTML, you can specify the MIME type in various elements:


    <a href="file.dat" type="application/dec-dx.">Download file</a>

Server-side (Node.js)

Setting the Content-Type header in Node.js:


    const http = require('http');
    
    http.createServer((req, res) => {
      res.setHeader('Content-Type', 'application/dec-dx.');
      res.end('Content here');
    }).listen(3000);

Associated file extensions

.dx

FAQ

What is a MIME type?

A MIME (Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions) type is a standard that indicates the nature and format of a document, file, or assortment of bytes. MIME types are defined and standardized in IETF's RFC 6838.

MIME types are important because they help browsers and servers understand how to process a file. When a browser receives a file from a server, it uses the MIME type to determine how to display or handle the content, whether it's an image to display, a PDF to open in a viewer, or a video to play.

MIME types consist of a type and a subtype, separated by a slash (e.g., text/html, image/jpeg, application/pdf). Some MIME types also include optional parameters.

How do I find the MIME type for a file?

You can check the file extension or use a file identification tool such as file --mime-type on the command line. Many programming languages also provide libraries to detect MIME types.

Why are multiple MIME types listed for one extension?

Different applications and historical conventions may use alternative MIME identifiers for the same kind of file. Showing them all helps ensure compatibility across systems.