Here's list of a few things you can try:
1) I haven't fooled with the StarCore software in years, but check the debugger panel seetings to make sure that you've got the correct core selected. That might be in the Debugger Remote panel.
2) For a USB pod, are all of its LEDs lighting up? Do you get a (Windows XP) "ding-dong" tone when you plug in the USB cable into the computer? That is an audible signal that idncates the system recognizes the USB device. No ding-dong, no USB communications. If you're connecting to a USB port on the board, are the LEDs on the board lighting up? In short, you should get indications that the USB device is being recognized and working.
3) What product are you using to connect to the board? If it's a P&E Micro, you can search on its web site (http://www.pemicro.com) for trouble-shooting information.
4) Search for USB download on these forums. This problem comes up occassionally, and it's worth seeing how others have solved their connection problem.