Average synchronization and temporal order in a noisy neuronal network with coupling delay

Average synchronization and temporal order characterized by the rate of firing are studied in a spatially extended network system with the coupling time delay, which is locally modelled by a two-dimensional Rulkov map neuron. It is shown that there exists an optimal noise level, where average synchronization and temporal order are maximum irrespective of the coupling time delay. Furthermore, it is found that temporal order is weakened when the coupling time delay appears. However, the coupling time delay has a twofold effect on average synchronization, one associated with its increase, the other with its decrease. This clearly manifests that random perturbations and time delay play a complementary role in synchronization and temporal order.