Dynamical states and stability of linear arrays of Josephson junctions

Abstract

We consider a one-dimensional array of dc-biased Josephson junctions shunted by a load of passive circuit elements. The load serves to couple the ac Josephson effect oscillations in the various junctions, giving rise to dynamical states of the system that do not appear for a single junction. Our results demonstrate two distinct phase-locked states of the array, hysteresis, and chaotic behavior depending on the load and the value of the bias current. Implications of these results for local oscillator applications of such arrays are also discussed.