Mode profile dispersion in the generalized nonlinear Schrodinger equation

The formulation of Schrodinger-like equations for nonlinear pulse propagation in a single-mode microstructured optical fiber with a strongly frequency-dependent guided-mode profile is investigated. A correct account of mode profile dispersion in general necessiates a generalization of the effective area concept commonly used in the generalized nonlinear Schrodinger equation (GNLSE). A numerical scheme to this end is developed, and applied to a solid-core photonic bandgap fiber as a test case. It is further shown, that a simple reformulation of the GNLSE, expressed only in terms of the traditional frequency-dependent effective area, yields a good agreement with the more complete theory.