Abstract: Apparatus and method for automated and semi-automated installation of blind rivets, comprising mechanical, pneumatic, and electronic subassemblies, with self-diagnostic capabilities. The system includes a rivet transfer arm external to the installation tool, which receives pneumatically fed rivets in a "home" position and transfers the rivets to an "advanced" position of alignment with the tool's nosepiece. A mandrel collection system routes separated mandrels from the tool to a remote receptacle through a channel under vacuum. Various sensors detect rivet placements, mechanism positions, and air pressure conditions, and signals from such sensors together with user inputs are received by a central processing unit (CPU). The CPU diagnoses the state of the installation system, produces command signals for a plurality of solenoid valves to regulate the system pneumatics, and reports status and fault conditions to the operator.