What is MIME type "application/x-erdas-hfa"?

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-erdas-hfa is used by ERDAS Imagine, a system focused on geospatial and remote sensing imagery. It manages large raster datasets with a hierarchical structure that stores both image data and metadata.

This format optimizes the storage and retrieval of detailed maps, satellite imagery, and other spatial data. It supports efficient multi-layer organization and quick access to image details.

Efficient data storage: Organizes large raster files with spatial information.
Multi-layer support: Enables handling of various image layers and associated metadata.
Remote sensing: Commonly used in satellite imagery and aerial photography.

Files using this MIME type include those with the following extensions: IMG, HFA, and IGE.

The hierarchical file architecture improves performance by breaking down large image data into manageable sections, making it a cornerstone in professional geospatial analysis.

For more technical insights, explore additional resources at Hexagon Geospatial.

Associated file extensions

.img, .hfa, .ige

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

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


    Content-Type: application/x-erdas-hfa

HTML

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


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

Associated file extensions

.img, .hfa, .ige

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.