Abstract: A control device is provided for an alternating current motor operating in single phase and having first and second windings coupled so that they are shifted in phase with respect to each other. A control unit includes first and second switching elements located between a line connection and respective first and second windings of the motor. One of the switching elements is open and the other closed in a switching state of the control unit, depending on the running direction of the motor. At least one of the switching elements is open when the control unit is in a state of rest. A power supply unit is provided for providing electric energy to the control unit. When the control unit is in a state of rest, the power supply operates by drawing on a first potential difference between a line connection and winding connection associated with the switching element that is open in the state of rest.