One-dimensional parallel Josephson-junction arrays as a tool for circuit diagnostics

We propose and demonstrate the use of underdamped, one-dimensional parallel arrays of Josephson junctions as a tool for circuit diagnostics. By measuring the Fiske modes and the critical current in a magnetic field, we determined the self and nearest neighbor inductances as well as the capacitances of single junctions. We have used this technique to find the capacitance of Nb-Al/sub 2/O/sub x/-Nb junctions for critical current densities of 0.3-20 kA/cm/sup 2/. We find that the specific capacitance increases by about a factor of 2 over this range. This increase has important consequences for the design of single-flux-quantum circuits and SQUIDs. Measurement of the junction capacitance for critical current densities of 100 kA/cm/sup 2/ is possible, but requires submicron junctions with dimensions of the order of 0.3 /spl mu/m.<>