As the current shape of SRM is of pulse type and changed by the motor parameters and drive conditions, the influences on the drive efficiency by control method are more than other types of motors. In this paper, a proper excitation condition to drive a SRM with high efficiency is proposed and tested. It is derived from the conditions that the phase current of a SRM is to be flat-topped at various drive. The saturation effect of magnetic circuit is accounted for more accurate analysis. Experimental tests are executed to verify the proposed excitation method. This drive system is easy to commutate and also advantageous in reducing torque ripple. (author). 6 refs., 10 figs., 1 tab.