This article discussed the development, characteristics and application prospect of HVI. In terms of the status-quo and developing trend of some test items, such as length, strength-elongation properties, micronaire value, fineness, maturity,nep and trash content, fluorescence degree, fine dust and adhesion, as well as the online-detection of ginning, foreign fiber and moisture regain, the article finally concluded the general development law and approach of raw cotton testing.