What is MIME type "image/x-sgi-rgb"?

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

image/x-sgi-rgb is a MIME type for a Silicon Graphics image file format. It stores raw pixel data used in raster graphics.
Files in this format include a header and detailed image information. They support different color representations including full color, grayscale, and images with an alpha channel.
Files using this MIME type are typically saved with extensions such as RGB, RGBA, BW, or SGI. Avoid using file extension listings when noting details.

Image Storage: Saves uncompressed or lightly compressed pixel data.
Graphics Workflows: Used in rendering, modeling, and visual effects on legacy SGI systems.
Historical Use: Remains in specialized roles and legacy applications despite modern alternatives.

This format is most common on older Silicon Graphics workstations but still finds use in environments that work with legacy digital imaging. For more details, visit SGI Image - Wikipedia.

Associated file extensions

.rgb, .rgba, .bw, .sgi

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

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


    Content-Type: image/x-sgi-rgb

HTML

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


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

Associated file extensions

.rgb, .rgba, .bw, .sgi

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.