Abstract: The present invention is a dual stage latch assembly with a cam follower pin mounted on a spring-tensioned arm, especially useful for vacuum test fixtures for printed circuit boards. The arm is spring-loaded on both sides, so that the arm is always biased to the upright and neutral position, regardless of which direction the arm is pivoted. A catch is provided to define the path of the cam pin and to hold the cam in certain positions. The cam pin follows a defined path around the catch, creating a first closed stage, a first release position, a second closed stage and a final release position.