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

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

image/x-targa is the MIME type for the Truevision Targa image format.
It stores raster graphics that support high color depths and transparency. This quality makes it ideal for computer graphics where clear, detailed images are needed.

Main use: Commonly used for textures in video game graphics.
Holds images with an embedded alpha channel for transparency.
Offers both uncompressed storage and run-length encoding for image data.
Utilized in digital animation and professional imaging workflows.

Files using this format typically carry extensions like TGA, VDA, ICB, VST, and TPIC.
This MIME type continues to be valued in workflows that demand reliable, high-quality imagery with support for transparency.

Associated file extensions

.tga, .vda, .icb, .vst, .tpic

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

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


    Content-Type: image/x-targa

HTML

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


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

Associated file extensions

.tga, .vda, .icb, .vst, .tpic

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.