1. The 8254 contains three independent 16-bit counters/timers that can be programmed to operate in different modes.
2. Each counter can be programmed to count from 1 to 65535 and has a programmable control word to select the operating mode.
3. The 8254 supports various timer modes like one-shot, continuous square wave, event counter, and software/hardware triggered one-shot for applications like timing, delay generation, and pulse width modulation.