What is MIME type "application/vnd.fdsn.seed"?

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

application/vnd.fdsn.seed is a MIME type for seismological data.

It is defined by the Federation of Digital Seismograph Networks (FDSN). The format packages waveform information and essential metadata that describe seismograph responses and station details.

Files using this type enable efficient data exchange during earthquake monitoring and seismic research. There are two main file variants in use: one carries complete waveform data along with metadata, and the other—often called DATALESS—holds only the metadata. Files that include both data and metadata are typically known as SEED files.

Data Exchange: Facilitates the transfer of seismic recordings between organizations.
Standardization: Ensures consistent packaging of seismic waveforms and metadata.
Seismic Analysis: Provides detailed instrument and calibration information for accurate event interpretation.

For more technical details, visit the IANA registration or the FDSN website.

Associated file extensions

.dataless, .seed

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

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


    Content-Type: application/vnd.fdsn.seed

HTML

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


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

Associated file extensions

.dataless, .seed

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.