A study of evaporated superconducting weak-link junctions

Abstract

The current–voltage characteristics and voltage oscillations of evaporated, superconducting weak-link junctions have been investigated. The zero-voltage current variation with temperature is shown to be similar to that for a Josephson junction. A simple theory based on part of the superconductor switching normal enables us to explain the voltage snapback. A model based on thermal instabilities due to bubbles in the liquid helium in contact with the junction has been used to explain the voltage oscillations. </jats:p