Array enhancement of stochastic synchronization and signal-to-noise ratio gain in the nonlinear regime of signal transmission.

The nonlinear transformation of an external noisy signal by an array of noninteracting elements with internal noise is considered. The array simulates a neuronal system that processes spike trains. It is shown that increasing the number of array elements entails significant extending of the stochastic synchronization region and improvement of the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). The effects are demonstrated for arrays of triggers, overdamped bistable oscillators, and Fitzhugh-Nagumo systems. The interrelation between SNR improvement and the efficiency of information processing is discussed.