A power search temporarily enables the ALC (closed-loop mode), adjusts the RF output power for better accuracy, and then disables the ALC (open-loop mode). Performing a power search is useful during modulation, specifically when you desire the accuracy of the ALC closed-loop mode but cannot enable ALC because doing so interferes with the modulated signal.

Power search is supported only when using the PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696 .

Configuring Power Search Using NI-RFSG

Perform a power search by completing either of the following options:
  1. Set the Automatic Power Search property to Enable or the NIRFSG_ATTR_AUTO_POWER_SEARCH attribute to NIRFSG_VAL_ENABLE for a power search to perform once the frequency or power level changes.

    Automatic power search is the default option.

  2. Call the niRFSG Perform Power Search VI or niRFSG_PerformPowerSearch function for a power search to perform immediately.