http://www.forcesofgeek.com/2015/07/fog-chats-with-byrd-mcdonald-director.html
So, steampunks don't want to throw innovation away. But they would like to touch the insides of their devices, even if it voids the warranty. Most of all, steampunk says customize technology, make it your own, and understand how it works.
Steampunk asks you to have an active, not passive, relationship with technology.