I have not done anything yet with simulators but I think the data required is not that much. So Serial communication is enough for your needs.

I do use regularly a small FTDI232 board that has Tx, Rx, GND and +5V as outputs with great success on Laptops that lack real serial ports. These little boards do not support other serial control lines though (CTS, RTS etc) and are made by a friend of mine here in Greece.

In general I remember only one USB-2-Serial device that had problems. Can't remember what brand it was, but for sure it was a driver issue.

I do not see why the MCS will not work. Just be sure that your adapter works with a simple test.

I am glad you are delving into C++ and Visual Studio, something I always wanted to do but never had the nerve to.

Ioannis