Impulse response in digital communication refers to how a system reacts over time to a brief input signal, providing insight into its filtering characteristics. Idle impulse response, while less commonly referenced, may pertain to the system's behavior when no active signals are present, potentially highlighting noise or baseline performance. Understanding both responses is crucial for analyzing system performance and optimizing communication protocols. The distinction between these two responses can impact the design and evaluation of digital communication systems. Clarifying these terms enhances comprehension of their applications in various digital communication contexts.