Abstract: A process and a circuit control the rotational speed of a direct current motor. In particular, the motor may be used to drive magnetic or optical data carriers. The motor is fed with a motor current by a switching device for commutation wherein the motor current induces a magnetic flux which generates the motor torque. The process and circuit increase the motor voltage applied to the motor in the startup or braking phase to a value above the supply voltage. Further, the process and circuit reduce the motor voltage during the commutation phase so that commutation switching may occur in a reduced-current condition.