Abstract: A compact smart card connector that can hold and connect to two smart cards (Cs, Ci) includes a base plate (42) that holds base contacts (46) and a cover plate (44) that holds cover contacts (54) and that is pivotally connected to the base plate. An intermediate plate device (36) holds first and second smart cards (Cs, Ci) respectively against its upper and lower surfaces (35, 39) with contact pads (Ps) of the cards facing away from the plate. The intermediate plate lies between the base and cover, so when the cover is pushed down, this pushes the cards against the base and cover contacts. The intermediate plate device has coupling plates (130) with slots that allow the intermediate plate device to slide to lock the cover in its lowered position.