Abstract
Solutions of the equation of motion of Josephson junctiondevices are approximated by analytical relations in the pronounced nonlinear range of small voltages. The minimum current at which the junction switches back into the net zero voltage state is established for devices with resistive and inductive elements, including the nonlinear tunnel resistance of the junction. The stability of the voltage state is estimated. Conditions for which junctions fail to enter the zero‐voltage state are discussed.