What is MIME type "application/x-ebu-stl"?

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-ebu-stl identifies files that store EBU STL subtitle data. These files hold text along with timing information for subtitles in video content.

Primary use: It ensures subtitles appear at the right moment during broadcasts.
Key function: Embeds time codes with textual data to support synchronized playback.
Other uses: Useful in post-production for editing and reviewing subtitle content before airing.

It is associated with the STL file format. This format is common in broadcast and media production to maintain the quality and timing of subtitles.

For more technical details, consider visiting the EBU (European Broadcasting Union) website.

Associated file extensions

.stl

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

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


    Content-Type: application/x-ebu-stl

HTML

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


    <a href="file.dat" type="application/x-ebu-stl">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-ebu-stl');
      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.