MCI, Inc.'s SkyTel unit today announced the launch of SkyTel SkyGuard, a vehicle-tracking device made especially for parents of teenage drivers. SkyGuard uses next-generation wireless and state-of-the-art GPS technologies to automatically collect location, speed and other vehicle information and relay that information to a secure website.

SkyGuard allows parents to view trip information on the Internet and see where a vehicle has traveled. In addition, parents can set up zones around areas of interest (like school or home) and areas that should be avoided. SkyGuard can also be used to remotely unlock or lock doors and disable a vehicle's starter, preventing the vehicle from restarting once it has been turned off.

"SkyGuard allows parents to know their children's whereabouts, giving them peace-of-mind," said Bruce Deer, SkyTel president. "By utilizing our wireless and IP capabilities, we are able to provide a product that is accessible 24 X 7, easy to use and helps parents encourage their children to behave responsibly while driving."

Unlike other tracking products, SkyGuard offers a remote alert feature that notifies parents via e-mail or mobile phone if there is an unusual occurrence such as the vehicle being driven when it should be parked, the vehicle is traveling at an unsafe speed or the car has entered a restricted zone.

SkyGuard works by installing a small device (about the size of a bar of soap) in the vehicle and connecting it to a power source. The device can also be wired to control door locks and the starter circuit. When the vehicle is running, the device collects and processes GPS and other vehicle information every two minutes and sends this data through MCI's SkyTel network to the SkyGuard database every 10 minutes. Parents receive secure login information to their personal SkyGuard website.

SkyGuard services are available throughout SkyTel's national network, which covers most metropolitan areas across the contiguous United States. (Check http://www.skytel.com/skyguard or call 1-800-395-6741 for pricing and availability.)