Abstract: An apparatus for controlling a BLDC motor includes a frequency controller configured to increase frequency of a drive signal that is applied to the motor to reach a first target speed at a relatively low speed region. The apparatus also includes a sensorless controller configured to observe location of a rotor of the motor at the low speed region, and provide a control signal to the motor by comparing a command speed with an estimated speed based on detection of a voltage and/or a current of the motor at a relatively high speed region. Further, the apparatus includes a control unit configured to select one of the frequency controller and the sensorless controller based on the speed of the motor.