Bios Mods -The Best BIOS Update and Modification Source

Hello,

I found this website while searching the web, so of course I'm new and want to say hello. I am interested in modding my bios and posting threads requesting help in doing so. Eventually I would like to enable AHCI use on my motherboard. I have an Inspirion 530s. However, I don't know enough about the process to ask the right type of questions. Until I really start becoming serious about doing this, would those who know more about the general process link some informative articles/tutorials? What kind of information about my system do other users want to know such that they can assist me? Much appreciated!

Some other initial questions:
Is it common to mod OEM bios?
How safe are mods/what are the risk?
I consider myself to be moderately savvy with computer, but do I have to be a guru in order to mod successfully?
Will my OEM Windows boot if it does not detect the original BIOS?

If you choose to answer some of these, please feel no obligation to answer all of them. Explain what you wish

Thanks to all for any input!