BISON PERFORMANCE

Since 1981 we have been operating the Birmingham Solar-Oscillations Ne twork (BiSON), a global network of resonant-scattering spectrometers, observing the low-l solar p modes. Here we discuss historical developm ents, culminating in the establishment of a 6-station network in 1992 September, and the subsequent performance of that network. The data re cord of each station from 1992 to 1994 has been analysed in terms of w eather and equipment breakdowns. Our early experience suggests that th e best long-term coverage possible with a 6-station network is limited in practice to about 80%, which falls short of previous predictions.