Abstract: An actuator for a zero insertion force printed circuit board connector. Two connectors are used in opposing pairs to connect to parallel edges of a printed circuit board. Moving a first actuator mechanism on the first connector moves the printed circuit board toward the opposite connector to a fixed position and then causes a closing/wiping action of the contacts of the first connector. A second actuator mechanism, located on the second connector, has operation substantially identical to that of the first mechanism except the printed circuit board does not move. The two connectors are mechanically substantially identical and the actuation sequence is independent of the handle sequence. Another embodiment for contacting a single edge of a printed circuit board is disclosed wherein one of the aforementioned two connectors is replaced by a simple guideway.