Hardware

Steampunk: A way of life for some designers

By // September 23, 2010, 11:41 PM PST // HuTerra

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  • Victorian all-in-one

    Lots of people think of steampunk as hobby, but for some designers it is an art form that translates into a way of life. For steampunk artist Jake von Slatt, steampunking modern computers is a way to make functional art.

    Photo courtesy of Jake von Slatt.

    Check out another TechRepublic gallery that features Mr. von Slatt's work: Mod your computer keyboard, steampunk style.

  • All-in-one

    The all-in-one with all steampunk components. Notice the pointing device.

    Photo courtesy of Jake von Slatt.

  • Fully functional

    Steampunk isn't just about the aesthetic. This computer is fully functional.

    Photo courtesy of Jake von Slatt.

  • Steampunk antiquated PC

    Every part of the system has been recreated in steampunk style.

    Photo courtesy of Jake von Slatt.

  • Steampunk keyboard

    This keyboard is fully functional for daily use.

    Photo courtesy of Jake von Slatt.

  • Monitor controls

    Every detail is remade. This is a close-up of monitor controls.

    Photo courtesy of Jake von Slatt.

  • Real antiques

    The legs on this flat screen LCD monitor were the inspiration for the entire project. The legs are antique brass gaslight arms.

    Photo courtesy of Jake von Slatt.

  • Flat panel LCD

    This flat panel LCD monitor is a real work of art.

    Photo courtesy of Jake von Slatt.

  • Nightlight

    Steampunk isn't just about computers.

    Photo courtesy of Jake von Slatt.

  • Jake von Slatt

    Mr. von Slatt of The Steampunk Workshop posing with his steampunk guitar.

    Photo courtesy of Jake von Slatt.

  • Computational engine

    This steampunk computer is rather large and custom built.

    Photo courtesy of Richard Nagy of Datamancer.net.

  • Disc drive

    A close-up of the computational engine's disc drive.

    Photo courtesy of Richard Nagy of Datamancer.net.

  • Gears box

    What is inside this box with intricate gears?

    Photo courtesy of Richard Nagy of Datamancer.net.

  • Gears up close

    Intricate gear work.

    Photo courtesy of Richard Nagy of Datamancer.net.

  • Keyboard

    There's a keyboard inside the box...

    Photo courtesy of Richard Nagy of Datamancer.net.

  • Laptop

    It's a steampunk laptop!

    Photo courtesy of Richard Nagy of Datamancer.net.

  • Old book

    What is this old book doing on Richard Nagy's desk?

    Photo courtesy of Richard Nagy of Datamancer.net.

  • Flatbed scanner

    That's no book! It's a custom steampunk flatbed scanner.

    Photo courtesy of Richard Nagy of Datamancer.net.

  • Reliquary keyboards

    These boxes hide steampunk keyboards.

    Photo courtesy of Richard Nagy of Datamancer.net.

  • Inside the reliquary keyboard box

    The lid opens to reveal a fully functional keyboard, complete with padded wrist rest.

    Photo courtesy of Richard Nagy of Datamancer.net.

  • Keys up-close

    One of the neatest things about steampunk is the attention to detail. Each keyboard has its own aesthetic.

    Photo courtesy of Richard Nagy of Datamancer.net.

  • Richard Nagy

    Mr. Nagy of Datamancer.net in his steampunk workshop. The clothes are proof that steampunk is more than a hobby.

    Photo courtesy of Richard Nagy of Datamancer.net.

Related Topics:

Hardware Innovation Mobility Networking Storage Data Centers Smart Persons Guides

Victorian all-in-one

Lots of people think of steampunk as hobby, but for some designers it is an art form that translates into a way of life. For steampunk artist Jake von Slatt, steampunking modern computers is a way to make functional art.

Photo courtesy of Jake von Slatt.

Check out another TechRepublic gallery that features Mr. von Slatt's work: Mod your computer keyboard, steampunk style.

About Nicole Nash

Nicole Bremer Nash is Director of Content and Social Media for HuTerra, where she uses SEO and social media to promote charitable organizations in their community-building and fundraising efforts. She enjoys volunteering, arts and crafts, and conduct...

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