The "star screws" are a specialized "Torx" fastener. The raised bump at their bottom is a "security" feature that prevents the use of normal Torx bits. You need to look for "security bits" in a well stocked hardware store. There are a variety of different kinds and sizes. (I picked some up on sale at a local Harbor Freight store).
Once the two screws are out you simply pull back, hard, on the plate to disengage the plastic tabs that are holding the plate to the iron.
Ed
October 2006