What is MIME type "application/sla"?

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

application/sla denotes the MIME type for the STereoLithography file format. It contains 3D surface geometry data used to describe object forms with small triangles.
It supports both ASCII and binary representations. Binary is common for keeping files compact.

3D Printing: Files carry detailed 3D models for printing processes.
CAD Software: Used to preview and manipulate designs.
Rapid Prototyping: Assists in producing quick, iterative physical models.

Files associated with this MIME type use the STL extension.
For more information, see the article on STL File Format on Wikipedia.

Associated file extensions

.stl

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

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


    Content-Type: application/sla

HTML

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


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

Associated file extensions

.stl

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.