The self-consistent generalization of the spline augmented-plane-wave
method within a full-potential density-functional framework is present
ed. The band-structure scheme properly accounts for the k-dependent sp
lit-up of the radial wave functions R(l) into R(lm) in the case-of an
arbitrary potential. As an application we investigate ground-state and
related properties of bulk Cu. Full-potential effects turn out to pla
y a minor role. Surprisingly, the absolute value of the equilibrium to
tal energy is found 1.305 Ry below the former result of Moruzzi et al.
, although the same exchange-correlation potential is employed. The ca
lculated equilibrium values of the lattice constant, bulk modulus, and
form factors agree quite satisfactorily with experimental results, wh
ile the band energies characteristically deviate from photoemission da
ta. Whenever possible, we compare our results to experimental and prev
ious theoretical data.