newbie trying to get it all going - PK3Err0045 connect to a target device

Hey all, I am just trying to get everything connected and going and having a little bit of trouble.

I am using PicBasic Pro, in MicroCode Studio on Windows 7
I have a PICKit3 connected to a BasicMicro 0818 Development board (externally powered with a 9V adapter)
I am using the PK3CMD.exe with the following options: -P$target-device$ -F$hex-filename$ -E -M -B -L

The target is a 16F88

When I compile and program blink.bas, it compiles fine, but when it programs, I get the following from the PICKit3:

Connecting...
PICkit 3 detected
Connecting to PICkit 3...
Firmware Suite Version...... 01.26.81
Firmware type......................Midrange
PICkit 3 Connected.
PK3Err0045:
You must connect to a target device to use PICkit
3.

I also tried a 16f676, with the same results.

In the manual it says:

PK3Err0045: You must connect to a target device to use PICkit 3.
No power has been found.1. Ensure Vdd
dand GND are connected between the debugger and target.2. Ensure that the target is powered.3. Ensure that the target power is sufficient to be detected by the debugger (see
Chapter 10. “Hardware Specification”
I do have external power going to the development board. What measurements should I make to ensure the other items are correct? Or it this the wrong path?

Suggestions?

thanks