A single-si ded, straddle mount printed circuit board edge connector (10) positively mechanically locks the connector to the circuit board (20) using a plurality of gripper arm assemblies (16) spaced along the connector housing. The gripper arm assemblies (16) each include an upper and lower gripper arm (34, 36) defining therebetween a printed circuit board receiving space. The gripper arm assemblies (16) positively mechanically lock the printed circuit board to the connector without the use of through holes and screws. The connector overcomes the disadvantages of connector tilt problems, manufacturability and simplicity in assembling the connector and printed circuit board.