This is a geeky and kool invention. An old manual typewriter working with a monitor is very Steam Punk KOOL. Just check out the geeky aesthetics.
The USB Typewriter turns an old typewriter into the keyboard of your computer. It works with PCs, Macs, and various Tablets. They sell a converter kit for the do it yourself geeks for $74. They have fully integrated models, $699 and up, for those of us that are not mechanically inclined and not handy with the soldering iron.
Below is the description from the The USB Typewriter web page. Make sure to watch the KOOL video at the bottom of the page.
The USB Typewriter Conversion Kit allows anyone with a typewriter and some basic soldering skills to create their own retro-futuristic marvel in a matter of hours. Take your family’s cherished typewriter and turn it into a computer keyboard you can use every day! Or, use our kit as a starting point for your own amazing steampunk creation.
The USB Typewriter Conversion Kit is designed to work with almost any manual typewriter. If you want to make sure it will work with your machine, please consult the compatibility chart. Our easy-to-follow instructions will shed more light on the conversion process. (USB)