Bend loss calculation in single-mode graded-index fibers using variational fields

Calculation of bend loss for single-mode graded-index fibers utilizes the fundamental modal field. Using some of the single and two parameter scalar variational approximations available in the literature for this mode, the bend loss has been computed. The exact results are obtained using a well known numerical method. The accuracies of the results obtained from the use of these variational fields have been compared.