Abstract: A card key operated locking mechanism has a connecting mechanism for connecting and disconnecting a locking device with a manual operated handle, a controller for controlling the connecting mechanism in accordance with card key insertion or removal, a latch mechanism to allow the connecting mechanism to maintain connection of the locking device with the handle, and a releasing mechanism to release the latch mechanism upon operation of the handle. The card key operated locking mechanism allows a user to rotate the handle one time upon removal of the card key.