If you want to use your existing PC equipment for monitoring over Ethernet, the simplest configuration involves two computers: one listening and the other relaying the signal. The former will need a microphone, although a webcam will work just fine while also offering the possibility of video monitoring.

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It won't surprise you to learn that I already had a PC in the baby's room, as well as a Media Center PC in the lounge. There was also a webcam in the baby room for video calls with the family, and the Media Center PC was, of course, connected to speakers. So my first test simply involved making an IP phone call from one to the other using existing messaging software. This worked surprisingly well in practice.

The webcam picked up even quiet sounds and the Media Center PC mixed the sound from the phone software with that of the TV or music - no interference, no cracking or hiss, it just worked and didn't involve any new equipment. Video was also possible, although the standard webcam wasn't very sensitive in low light.