In an MX-880 your somewhat limited in variables in that you really don't have the ability to put commands on EVERY button. However, on any given button you can use variables to do the following:

: Check the value of a variable, act on it, then set it accordingly

- conditional page jumps
- conditional use of a power command
- conditional use of a delay
- conditional use of a macro
- etc, etc. your imagination is the limit.

All variables allow you do, like press and hold sequences, is to allow any given button to do one or more tasks. The only difference is that you are setting the value after performing certain tasks/commands, then testing for it each time the user presses the button. Dont over-complicate the configuration with variables that are not saving the user any time or page jumps; There is also a limit of how many you can set with the 880 - forget how many at this time. Also, do not expect variables to solve problems with TOAD devices since they are not 100% bulletproof.