What is MIME type "model/vnd.valve.source.compiled-map"?

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

The MIME type model/vnd.valve.source.compiled-map is used by compiled map files for the Valve Source engine. These files, like BSP, hold pre-processed level data ready for fast loading in games.
They store the map's spatial geometry, lighting details, and entity placements. This format optimizes performance during gameplay by pre-calculating complex data.

Main Use: Storing and quickly loading game level data in Valve Source titles.
Efficient Rendering: Contains pre-compiled spatial data to speed up graphics rendering and collision detection.
Game Optimization: Reduces in-game processing by handling complex geometry and lighting beforehand.

For more detailed technical insights, visit the Valve Developer Community.

Associated file extensions

.bsp

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

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


    Content-Type: model/vnd.valve.source.compiled-map

HTML

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


    <a href="file.dat" type="model/vnd.valve.source.compiled-map">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', 'model/vnd.valve.source.compiled-map');
      res.end('Content here');
    }).listen(3000);

Associated file extensions

.bsp

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.