What is MIME type "application/x-3ds"?

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

The MIME type application/x-3ds is used for 3D model files. It is a binary format that stores data like vertices, edges, and textures.
It was popular with early 3D software and is still seen in some legacy applications.

This format is mainly used in 3D modeling and game design. It lets programs render detailed scenes by reading geometric and texture data.

3D Modeling: Holds mesh geometry and material information.
Game Development: Feeds engines with data for rendering models.
Legacy Support: Remains in use with older or specialized 3D tools.

Files using this MIME type often have the 3DS extension. In some cases, similar 3D data may be seen with the MAX extension.

Associated file extensions

.max, .3ds

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

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


    Content-Type: application/x-3ds

HTML

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


    <a href="file.dat" type="application/x-3ds">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/x-3ds');
      res.end('Content here');
    }).listen(3000);

Associated file extensions

.max, .3ds

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.