Thanks guru & jono-ats,
a quick google of "TTL <> RS232 converter" brings up mostly results for "RS232 to TTL" converters (in the $10 - $30 price range).. with only a select few reading "TTL to RS232" (in the $100-$200 price range. that price difference is scary enough that I have to ask my next question.
To me, the phrase "A simple TTL <> RS232 converter" would normally mean "a $20 part easily found at radio shack".. but considering the price of PC3K, that could just as easily mean "a $100 - $200 part that only choice electronics places will have"

So, sorry for the newbie question here, but is it specifically a "TTL <> RS232" or is the other way around an option too? I am totally prepared to hear something to the tune of "silly newbie, the terms are interchangeable and all you have to do is turn the adapter around!". so don't hold back