Abstract: A cartridge receiver with a tray pivotally coupled to a cover pivots from a cartridge receiving position to an operating position in a limited amount of vertical space. A cartridge is guided into and properly aligned within the tray in the receiving position and the cover is then closed and the cartridge receiver latched into an operating position. A plunger attached to the cover exerts a downward force on the cartridge when the cover is closed. Pins attached to the frame align and support the cartridge when the cartridge receiver is in an operating position. A threading pin is coupled to the cover and the tray for engaging a cartridge leader block and a bridge is attached to the tray to align the leader block with the threading pin. The leader block is guided back into the cartridge when the tape is rewound. A cartridge present sensor, a file protect sensor, and a latch sensor are also employed as part of the cartridge receiver.