I added SOPT=83; to my startup routine as the first command. I started the device with the BDM and looked at the SOPT bits. The COPE bit is 0. So I assume the COP is disabled.
When I hit reset in the debugger, it goes to the _Startup function. It does not immediately execute it, though. It just shows that it is in the _Startup in the "Source" Window in the upper left corner of the debugger.
When I turn the device on outside of the debugger, it still does not turn on.
I have flash other project of mine onto this device and it turns on without any problem. I have not tried a ckean new project on it yet, because the other project code already confirmed that the device works. I assume that is why you asked about trying a new application on it.