138 in 1 controls not working.

[ChristopherDXS]

Yes, I am new here and to building so please be gentle.
I have seen this topic posted before but I couldn't find an answer.
I installed a 138 in 1 PCB - all of the wiring is correct but I think the issue is that it is not on "free play" but I can't access the system settings if the buttons aren't working

When I power up and at the elf menu, I hold down the 1P button and it takes me to a screen that says "Press S1 to set up" and none of the buttons are responsive. The buttons are also unresponsive in the Game List screen but if I let it run until the Defender screen saver comes on and hold the 1P button it gives me the option to "Continue" or "Exit" - if I choose Continue, nothing happens, if I choose Exit I return back to the Game List screen and start all over again.

Please, any help would be greatly appreciated since this is only my second build and I don't know anyone with any knowledge on this. I'm sure it's something simple but in the meantime, I'm over here tearing my hair out.
Thanks in advance.

[tron84]

Sounds like it is not wired right.
The buttons should work on free play, so that has nothing to do w/ it.

[ChristopherDXS]

I tried the manual but it doesn't read very clear.
All I need to know is how to set it to free play.

[BobA]

So did you press the S1 button on the PCB?  If so what was the result?