The split-ring Josephson resonator as an artificial atom

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates that a split-ring Josephson resonator behaves like an artificial atom with multiple stationary states, which can be switched and detected using magnetic pulses and spectroscopy techniques.

Contribution

It introduces a novel analogy between split-ring Josephson resonators and atomic systems, including state characterization and switching methods.

Findings

Multiple stationary states identified in the Josephson oscillator.

State switching achieved with short magnetic pulses.

Detection of states via reflection spectroscopy.

Abstract

Using the resistive-shunted-junction model we show that a split-ring Josephson oscillator or radio-frequency SQUID in the hysteretic regime is similar to an atomic system. It has a number of stationary states that we characterize. Applying a short magnetic pulse we switch the system from one state to another. These states can be detected via the reflection of a small amplitude signal forming the base of a new spectroscopy.