Wireless Device Tracks Teens' Vehicles

Parents worried about where their kids are driving will appreciate the latest service now being offered by SkyTel, a division of MCI. The unit has launched the SkyTel Guard, a wireless device placed in the car that transmits location, speed and information on the vehicle to a secure Web site.

The Web site allows users to set up allowed and restricted areas of travel, as well as methods to alert parents of unusual activity. Doors can also be locked and unlocked remotely and users can disable a vehicle's starter to prevent the car from starting once it has been turned off.

The SkyTel Guard device, about the size of a bar of soap, is installed in the vehicle by connecting it to a power source. When the car is running, data is collected every two minutes and sent to the Web site every ten minutes.

"SkyGuard allows parents to know their children's whereabouts, giving them peace of mind," Bruce Deer, SkyTel president said.

Users would be able to receive alerts by e-mail or mobile phone when unusual activity occurs. For example, an alert would be sent when the car is traveling into an area that has been set as a restricted zone.

The SkyTel Guard service is available through the company's Web site. and covers many metropolitan areas across the United States.

A portable version of the unit is available for $299.99 USD, with a permanent solution priced at $349.99 USD. Service charges range in price from just under $60 for a year subscription to a light plan, to $387.49 USD for a "plus" annual subscription.

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