What is MIME type "application/edi-x12"?

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

application/edi-x12 is a MIME type used for electronic data interchange (EDI) that follows the ANSI X12 standard.
It formats structured messages for automated business communications between computer systems.
These messages automate tasks such as invoicing, ordering, and shipping without manual data entry.
Files using this MIME type often come in forms like EDI, X12, or sometimes even EDIFACT in EDI-related contexts.

Transaction processing: Automates the exchange of business documents.
Data integration: Allows systems to communicate securely and efficiently.
Error reduction: Minimizes human intervention and associated errors.

This format is common in fields like finance, healthcare, and retail where secure, fast document transfer is essential.
For more detailed information, check out this reference.

Associated file extensions

.edi, .x12, .edifact

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

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


    Content-Type: application/edi-x12

HTML

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


    <a href="file.dat" type="application/edi-x12">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/edi-x12');
      res.end('Content here');
    }).listen(3000);

Associated file extensions

.edi, .x12, .edifact

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.