What is MIME type "application/x-spss-sav"?

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-spss-sav is used for data files created with SPSS software. It identifies files that store structured statistical data in a binary format. This format is designed to keep data values, variable names, labels, and metadata intact.

Files with this type typically come in two variants: one is the SAV version and the other is the ZSAV version.

Data Analysis: It is ideal for storing large datasets used in statistical studies.
Research Data Management: It maintains detailed variable information and data structure.
Interoperability: It allows data sharing among professionals using SPSS for consistent data processing.

For more details on MIME types and file formats, see this MIME reference.

Associated file extensions

.sav, .zsav

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

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


    Content-Type: application/x-spss-sav

HTML

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


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

Associated file extensions

.sav, .zsav

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.