gfretwell,
In circumstances as you mentioned is it important to acheive the correct rotation the first time?
If the answer is yes, there is a way to do it. Install an encoder on the motor. You will need a sensing device to ensure it runs the direction you chose.
An encoder outputs a square wave relative to the input voltage. Thus while looking at an encoders output with a scope, one direction would be a positive wave and the other a negative wave. I use the word wave loosely as it is not a true wave. It is digital. But they do work, with an encoder and a device to accept the signal and report to the starting mechanism.
