A method for controlling a U-shape single phase synchronous permanent magnetic motor having a rotor and a stator and coupled to a single phase alternating current (AC) power source through a switch includes estimating back-electromotive force and the position of the rotor based on a voltage feedback signal, a current feedback signal, and a phase feedback signal indicative of a zero-crossing of the single phase AC power source. Once the speed and position of the rotor are determined, a controller can trigger a switch to supply power to the motor.