What is MIME type "model/x3d+binary"?

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

model/x3d+binary defines a binary-encoded format for files using the X3D standard. This MIME type tells software that the file holds compact 3D scene data in binary form rather than human-readable text.

The binary encoding offers better performance. It leads to smaller file sizes and faster loading, which is important in rendering complex 3D models in applications and web browsers.

Enhanced performance in real-time 3D rendering.
Optimized file size for quicker network transfers.
Used in virtual simulations, interactive graphics, and visual 3D visualizations.
Supports efficient cross-platform 3D content exchange.

Files using this type may have extensions such as X3D, X3DB, X3DV, X3DBZ, X3DVZ, or X3DZ.

The format is key in environments where rapid and efficient decoding of 3D scenes is necessary. For further technical details, visit the Web3D Consortium.

Associated file extensions

.x3d, .x3db, .x3dv, .x3dbz, .x3dvz, .x3dz

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

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


    Content-Type: model/x3d+binary

HTML

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


    <a href="file.dat" type="model/x3d+binary">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/x3d+binary');
      res.end('Content here');
    }).listen(3000);

Associated file extensions

.x3d, .x3db, .x3dv, .x3dbz, .x3dvz, .x3dz

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.