High-Tc Step-Edge Josephson Junction Arrays: Comparison of Simulated and Experimental Voltage Responses

With the recent development of multijunction superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) arrays and superconducting quantum interference filters (SQIFs) using high-temperature superconducting (HTS) materials, it has become increasingly desirable to accurately model HTS devices to enable the optimization of the design for enhanced performance before fabrication. Initially, to develop our simulation capability for HTS devices, we have been working with a commercial software package to fit the data obtained from the characterization of two HTS devices. The models were iteratively adjusted by increasing the number of parameters taken into account, including the aspect ratio of the SQUID loop and the bias injection point. These models were developed for devices fabricated using YBCO step-edge junctions formed on MgO substrates. It was found that the biasing mechanism affects the SQIF voltage response to applied magnetic fields. This has implications for the design of larger arrays.