Hi Logic Pro
I'll start with Automap because it will help to answer your first question if you know what it is.
Automap means you can automatically map the rotary encoders and drum pads on the Impulse to any of Logic's instruments, effects and even the mixer.
It takes a little bit to get set up and I recommend going to Novation website to fond out how. You'll need to 'wrap' Automap around all Logic's plugins.
Then whenever you open a plugin Automap will automatically assign an encoder/drum pad/button to a function of that plugin.
Eg filter cutoff, lfo rate etc. You can change the way it assigns things to suit.
So its great for live manipulation of one or more settings on a plugin/instrument/effect. Something a mouse can't easily do.
But Logic isn't the sort of program that lets you trigger drum loops with the pads. You can have a try with Mainstage if you have it, but you might want to think of some other creative uses.
Other options:
1. If you turn Automap off the drum pads will send midi cc information. You could make something in Logic's enviromnent that could respond to the cc information (but I imagine it will be limited to only one or two possible functions - probably not triggering drum loops)
2. If loops is what you're after, use Logic's EXS24. Create a new sampler instrument and fill it with he loops you want to trigger, then use the keys on your Impulse instead of the drum pads. You might be able to split the keyboard so half of it is triggering loops and the other half is still making sounds.
Hope that is enough to give you some ideas anyway- have fun!
Cheers
Hamish