avr_fred:
You need a RS-232 to to TTL level shifter, the MAX232 is commonly used. You can buy the required DB9 and a MAX232 on a board for a $1 from China. Only issue is they’re usually counterfeit parts although they reportedly work.
hmm, more waiting for stuff from China - but if it is indeed possible, i will definitely give it a go - never mind the inefficient roundabout solution - would be "fun" just to see the converting of a converter !! 
avr_fred:
The CH340G is solid part, used tons of them without issue. What OS? Post a picture of the module you have, i probably have one I can test or comment on.
ooh, that would of course be much better, thanks !!
here's the pic; (EDIT : running Windows and IDE 1.0.5)
it looks quite alright - there's a button near the DTR pin which i'm not sure of its function, but when i press it, the LED by CTS goes off (when connected to the computer USB).
EDIT : incase the pic is not bright enough, there is a slide-switch below the 12 MHz crystal for switching 5V and 3.3 V levels - it's set at 5V now.
i have the drivers okay - Device Manager detects it and a loop-back test works fine.
but uploading a sketch (to a 328P... larryd will know 
) gives the STK500 - not in sync error.
FWIW : i managed to get some support via the eBay seller but i cannot access the link they gave; http://www.mcu-memory.com/datasheet/stc/STC-ISP-V4.86/STC-ISP-V4.86-NOT-SETUP-CHINESE.EXE
connection error to the website - no DNS from my end. 
(i think there is a block happening somewhere - the email i received should have an (in-line) image but it doesn't appear - i'm in a country that likes to block certain websites... vimeo for one, and even reddit... i've not bothered to get a VPN to get around the block... haven't really found the urgent need to ... yet.)