Josephson Device for quantum experiments

We present the characterization of a fully integrated Josephson device consisting of a rf-SQUID coupled to a readout system based on a dc SQUID sensor. Particular care in the design is devoted to minimize the electromagnetic noise coming from the environment. We report data on dc SQUID performances as well as on the decay rate from metastable flux states of the rf SQUID in the classical regime. The low dissipation level and the good insulation of the probe from the external noise are encouranging in view of macroscopic quantum experiments.