What is MIME type "application/x-hdf"?

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-hdf is used for files based on the Hierarchical Data Format. This format stores large and complex scientific data in a tree-like structure. It is designed to manage multi-dimensional arrays, images, and associated metadata.

It is popular in research and engineering where efficient data storage and retrieval are crucial. Files with this type are found in many data-intensive applications.

Common file types using this MIME include formats like H5, HDF, HDF5, HE5, H4, HDF4, HE2, and HE4.

Key Facts and Use Cases:

• Data Organization: Structures diverse datasets in a flexible hierarchy.
• Multi-dimensional Support: Manages arrays and images in research and simulation environments.
• Embedded Metadata: Stores detailed descriptive information with the data itself.
• Cross-Platform Use: Widely adopted in scientific computing and engineering applications.

For more details on file types and usage, visit The HDF Group.

Associated file extensions

.h5, .hdf, .hdf5, .he5, .h4, .hdf4, .he2, .he4

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

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

    Content-Type: application/x-hdf
  

HTML

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

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

Associated file extensions

.h5, .hdf, .hdf5, .he5, .h4, .hdf4, .he2, .he4