diff --git a/start-vara-hf b/start-vara-hf
index 5a971dd..cff0566 100755
--- a/start-vara-hf
+++ b/start-vara-hf
@@ -7,6 +7,15 @@ MYPATH=$HOME/patmenu2
 LOGO=$MYPATH/pmlogo.png
 source $MYPATH/config
 
+#check if VARA HF modem is installed
+if [ ! -f $HOME/.wine/drive_c/VARA/VARA.exe ]; then
+		yad --title="FAILED" --width=400 --height=100 \
+    		--image $LOGO --window-icon=$LOGO --image-on-top --text-align=center \
+   		--center --form --text="VARA Modem not installed" \
+    		--button=gtk-ok
+exit
+fi
+
 #Check if FLRIG is running if user has it set in config file
 if [ "$RIGCONTROL" = 'yes' ]; then
 echo "rig control is on"