Abstract: A bulk component feeder is provided for delivering components contained with a bulk cassette. The feeder includes a feeder housing defining a component cassette receiving area. The receiving area includes a cassette mounting means for registration with the cassette, and the housing defines an opening for receiving components from the cassette. A gate slidable within the cassette receiving area interfaces with a mounting means, and the gate is slidable to cover the opening in a closed position and uncover the opening in an open position upon attachment of the cassette to the housing. A spring is used to bias the gate toward the closed position, and a latch is mounted to the housing and is engagable with the gate to prevent sliding of the gale toward the open position and thereby prevent installation of the cassette.