I cannot create a global variable in Solidworks 2018 Premium under Window 10 Enterprise with all latest win updates. I always get "The syntax of this equation is incorrect."

It does not matter how I try to create the variable. I have tried creating it from modifying a dimension as well and when I do that and then go to equation editor, the variable is not there.

I have completely uninstalled SW 2018 and reinstalled SW to no avail.

These are the steps I try to minimally get a global variable

1. Open Solidworks 2018 Prem.
2. Sketch a rectangle on the top plane
3. Open up the Equation Editor
4. Under Global Variables,  I click in “Add global
        variable” text box
5. Type testVal1
6. Hit tab
7. Type 10; SW automatically changes this to =10
8. Hit enter
9. Get the popup message “The syntax of this equation is
        incorrect.”

I've tried the info here  GoEngineer - Knowledge Base .

Can anyone help with this?