The checkpoint frequency parameter determines the amount of time between automatic logging system checkpoints. These automatic checkpoints cause the contents of log buffer cache to be written to table files on disk, removing the need for applications to issue checkpoints manually. See the SQL Reference for a description of the CHECKPOINT command.
The checkpoint frequency parameter is one of the factors affecting the length of time needed to return location data objects to a logically consistent state after a transient system failure, such as a power outage, or operating system failure. If you increase the checkpoint interval, the system requires more time for log recovery after a transient system failure. Conversely, a shorter checkpoint interval reduces average recovery time, but increases system overhead.