What is MIME type "application/x-pef+xml"?

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

application/x-pef+xml is a MIME type that marks files using an XML structure for the Portable Embosser Format.

This format is built on XML. It stores detailed instructions for formatting text into embossed (tactile) output. The XML markup lets software deliver rich, structured data for embossers.

Primary use: Provides layout and embossing instructions for devices that create tactile or braille documents.
Flexibility: The XML base allows easy updates and customization of document structure.
Workflow integration: Fits into systems that convert standard digital text into embossed output.

Files using this MIME type carry the PEF extension. This type is common in specialized software dealing with braille and tactile printing.

For more on XML and its applications in file formats, visit the W3C XML page.

Associated file extensions

.pef

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

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


    Content-Type: application/x-pef+xml

HTML

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


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

Associated file extensions

.pef

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.