This document describes a typical user experience when using a smartcard to sign into a Windows PC

If you are using a smartcard certificate,  then PIN is always required.

Enter the PIN of your smartcard, then press the  button to continue

If the correct PIN was provided, then you'll be prompted to select the smartcard reader

Select your smartcard reader from the "Readers" list, then press the "Select Certificate" button

You'll be prompted to select your certificate

Select your certificate in the list, then press the "OK" button

You have now successfully signed in