A microscopic theory for the coupling of intrinsic Josephson oscillations due
to charge fluctuations on the quasi two-dimensional superconducting layers is
presented. Thereby in close analogy to the normal state the effect of the
scalar potential on the transport current is taken into account consistently.
The dispersion of collective modes is derived and an estimate of the coupling
constant is given. It is shown that the correct treatment of the quasiparticle
current is essential in order to get the correct position of Shapiro steps. In
this case the influence of the coupling on dc-properties like the I−V-curve
is negligible.Comment: 6 pages latex, 5 figures, espcrc2.sty, Invited Contribution to "2nd
International Symposiom on Intrinsic Josephson Effects and Plasma
Oscillations in High-TC Superconductors", 22-24 August, Sendai, Japan, to be
published in Physica