Steampunk is the giving of modern technology the look and feel of Victorian era "early industrial" look. The concept was originally (as I understand it) it that most technology in human history has a cycle which includes a period where the technology is expressed in a very high end, artistic fashion. Modern technology "never got the chance" to be classy and stylish, so folks started making modern items but using wood, brass, exposed gears anything that would create a sense of intricacy and style.
The issue became when kids started taking apart REAL Victorian antiques to make jewelry and modern items look old.
THAT is actually what started The Victorian Sweatshop (my collection traveling tour) Showing kids at steampunk events what they look like when working to hopefully generate a sense of respect and admiration that might protect future "scrapping"
I personally prefer THIS type of stuff...
http://www.datamancer.net/steampunkl...punklaptop.htm