An apparatus and method, for use with a computer, for converting an uncompressed one-dimensional array of binary bits into a compressed binary bit string and/or for processing a Boolean operation on a first and a second compressed bit string. The first and second bit strings each contain one or more impulses. An impulse contains a run, which is a string of one or more bits of the same binary value, and an ending bit having a polarity opposite the polarity of the run. The impulses are encoded in one or more compressed impulse formats. Each compressed impulse format contains at least a first and a second indicator. The first indicator is for indicating the binary value of one or more same polarity bits of the run and the second indicator is for indicating the length of bits of the impulse. The length of bits is a quantity of the same polarity bits of the run and/or the ending bit having a polarity opposite the run.