What is MIME type "image/x-dwg"?

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

image/x-dwg is a MIME type for computer-aided design (CAD) drawings. It tells programs that the file contains technical drawing data.

These files are used for detailed blueprints and design plans. They work with complex geometry and layout data created by CAD software like AutoCAD. The format supports intricate details that guide architecture, engineering, and manufacturing designs.

Files with this MIME type often use the DWG format, which stores complete drawing information, or the DWT format, used for templates.

Precision Drafting: Ensures accurate display of technical drawings.
Interoperability: Helps applications recognize and process CAD files correctly.
Industry Standards: Common in architecture, engineering, and construction.

This MIME type allows systems to correctly manage and display complex design files. For more details on how MIME types work, visit this article on MIME.

Associated file extensions

.dwg, .dwt

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

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


    Content-Type: image/x-dwg

HTML

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


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

Associated file extensions

.dwg, .dwt

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.