Master-slave synchronization in chaotic discrete-time oscillators.

In this paper, we study a simple discrete-time neural oscillator model that, in certain parameter regimes, exhibits periodic or chaotic dynamics. The present model with intrinsically chaotic dynamics is capable of spatiotemporal information processing: in response to constant external stimulation, the oscillator can switch into different chaotic states restricted to distinct parts of the phase space. Of particular interest is the processing of time-dependent input in a master-slave configuration of two coupled oscillators. Here, the response of an oscillator is studied by driving it with the signal of the other. Following the input, the response system adapts to the state of the drive. For a chaotic drive, we can observe generalized synchronization. The onset of adaptation to the drive state by the response is accompanied by on-off intermittency resulting in irregular bursting behavior.