I have a remote control system for an R/C boat that operates on 2.4 GHz (spread spectrum of some sort). It comes with an antenna that is about 4" long. Is there a commercial (cheap) one that can extend the range of the system. I seem to only be getting about 500' from it now. Thanks.

My guess is you're using a low-end system instead of a major brand - like Futaba, JR or Spektrum. Those systems are poorly designed and have just enough range to work within the capacity of the cheap model sthat come with them. Not being sarcastic here, just real. A different antenna wouldn't be worth the trouble. I suggest that you live with what you have for now, and if you plan to move on to more sophisticated models, buy a good system - the $250 will save you a lot of heartache and headache.

BTW I've been operating RC models for many decades and have seen a lot of people make the mistalke of trying to use those cheap systems in higher end models with disasterous results.

I'm not familiar with the hobby RC systems at 2.4 GHz, but I agree that your range problems are more than likely due to poor quality equipment. The stuff sold as package deals are usually barely qualified.

Price isn't always the ultimate indicator of quality, but if you do a common sense assessment of what it takes to produce the equipment and compare to the price, you can tell pretty well what is junk.

The principle applies to Ham gear as well. Pay bottom price get bottom performance. I've learned that the hard way. Nowadays I'll do without before buying junk. The exception is if the application is only temporary or for assessment. Then I buy the mid-to-good-quality equipment.