the self-contained Grid Search Plugin usage example follows. This example is configured to use local filtering (mode:'local') but remote mode, when serching itself is done by the server, is also possible. The plugin should also work with AutoGrid(s) and paging grids.
One suggestion: Posibility for select "Local" or "Server" mode on the fly. Whe you click in search button should be great that appears one "Check buton" with text "Local mode" after separator and the rest of the columns. If "local mode" is clicked, the plugin work as now in other case go to server....
yes, it's easily feasible to switch local/remote mode from menu. Nevertheless, I do no want to present users with options that need explanation and understanding. Local/remote is meant for programmer who knows which store is used and uses plugin mode accordingly.