Abstract: Data processing apparatus redistributes data obtained from a data signal in which data is non-linearly distributed with respect to time, the redistribution being such as to provide the obtained data in linearly distributed form with respect to time. Means may be arranged to supply the linearly distributed data from the apparatus in a form which can be used to control a facsimile recorder having predetermined speed and reaction-time characteristics. The data may be obtained from the data signal by sampling means controlled by controlling means which includes a shaping circuit producing an analogue control signal or discrete command signals.