The trend is considered toward development and application of various linear electromagnetic impact machine designs wherein the reciprocal motion of the plunger (armature) is timed with the frequency of the voltage pulses fed to the motor winding (coil) or a system of such coils from a mains-frequency power source. Based on the differences found between the methods of regulating the forced mechanical vibration regimes of the plunger, an analysis is made of the advantages and shortcomings of the operating cycles of synchronous machines built mainly around single- and double-coil designs. Novel electromagnetic synchronous machine designs are presented, along with their operating cycle control methods providing for a necessary sequence of alternation of the voltage half-waves applied to the coils, which make it possible to reduce the current pulse amplitude and the effect of the operation of the impact-type electric drive on the supply circuit. New technical solutions are suggested for improvement of the adjustment accuracy and stability of the forced vibration regime, which improves the performance characteristics and operating conditions of machines.