Abstract: The present invention is a method and apparatus for supplying components, via a carrier tape having a cover tape thereon and a plurality of pockets retaining components therein, for retrieval by an automated insertion machine, including a carrier tape reel support, a tape feed path with a peel edge, about which to peel the cover tape from the carrier tape prior to the component being presented for retrieval at the pick location, and a cover tape path preferably having a V-bar and O-ring drive system for directing the travel of the cover tape in a rearward and downward direction to facilitate disposal beneath the tape feeder. Such a system provides a cover tape disposal path that enables the use of spliceable carrier tapes on such feeders.