Collective frequencies and metastability in networks of limit-cycle oscillators with time delay

We analyze the dynamic behavior of large two-dimensional systems of limit-cycle oscillators with random intrinsic frequencies that interact via time-delayed nearest-neighbor coupling. We find that even small delay times lead to a novel form of frequency depression where the system decays to stable states which oscillate at a delay and interaction-dependent reduced collective frequency. For greater delay or tighter coupling between oscillators we find metastable synchronized states that we describe analytically and numerically.

Collective frequencies and metastability in networks of limit-cycle oscillators with time delay | Litlas